Martin O'Neill is on the cusp of achieving a significant milestone in his coaching career with Celtic, potentially returning to the Champions League 22 years after his last involvement in the competition. This remarkable dugout comeback comes nearly a year after his unexpected return to Celtic Park.
O'Neill, who had not managed since leaving Nottingham Forest six years prior, was approached by Celtic owner Dermot Desmond last October. At the time, he had been publicly discussing league title credentials for various clubs, making his swift re-engagement with Celtic a rapid turn of events. Despite an initial period where Wilfried Nancy was favored, O'Neill was rehired to guide Celtic, ultimately leading them to the league championship. This victory served as a form of atonement for losing the title on the final day of the 2004-05 season, during his first tenure.
The opportunity to return to the Champions League, a competition he last managed 22 years ago, was not initially anticipated. If successful, this would mark an extraordinary achievement for the 74-year-old manager.
O'Neill's previous Champions League campaign saw Celtic compete in a challenging Group F against Barcelona, AC Milan, and Shakhtar Donetsk. The team faced numerous defeats, with a notable draw at the Nou Camp against Barcelona and a goalless home draw against Milan. This period also marked the beginning of the end for a highly successful Celtic squad.
His potential return to the Champions League stage would surpass the gap seen with Jupp Heynckes, who returned 13 years after his previous management in the competition. If Celtic secures a spot in the draw, O'Neill will have an eight-year longer gap.
Celtic secured a commanding 3-0 lead in the first leg of their Champions League qualifier against LASK, with Camilo Duran scoring twice. However, O'Neill and his staff are emphasizing the need for caution, recognizing LASK's potential to score in bursts. The Austrian side is known for strong attacking performances, having scored multiple goals against several top teams in their domestic league last season.
LASK's forwards, Moses Usor and Samuel Adeniran, were not clinical in the first leg, but their team is capable of posing a significant threat. LASK manager Dietmar Kuhbauer has stated his team will aim for an "exceptional performance" in the second leg, acknowledging the challenge but expressing determination.
Celtic has a strong record when leading after the first leg, having only once squandered a three-goal advantage in Europe, which occurred in the 1963-64 Cup Winners' Cup semi-final. The current Celtic squad has shown improvement, with new signings contributing to their attacking prowess. The team has scored 13 goals in their first four competitive matches this season. If Celtic can withstand early pressure from LASK and secure a goal, they are well-positioned to advance to the Champions League.