Celtic produced a stunning second-half performance to overturn a deficit and secure a vital 3-1 victory against Dutch side Feyenoord in the Europa League. The Scottish champions demonstrated resilience and quality in a triumphant final European match for interim manager Martin O'Neill.
Feyenoord Strike First in Rotterdam
The hosts started brightly at a packed De Kuip stadium and took an early lead through Ayase Ueda. The Japanese forward coolly slid the ball past Celtic goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel to put Feyenoord in front, putting the Scottish side under immediate pressure.
Celtic struggled to find their rhythm initially, but grew into the game as the first half progressed. The visitors were creating chances but found themselves trailing as the teams headed towards the interval.
Celtic's Second-Half Transformation
The match turned dramatically in Celtic's favour shortly after half-time. Yang Hyun-Jun equalised with a fine volley following an excellent team move, swinging the momentum firmly in the Scottish side's favour.
The comeback was complete when Reo Hatate capitalised on a sloppy clearance from Feyenoord goalkeeper Timon Wellenreuther. The midfielder showed great composure to put Celtic ahead with what proved to be the winning goal.
Substitute Benjamin Nygren came off the bench to round off the scoring late in the game, securing a well-deserved 3-1 victory for the visitors.
Player Ratings and Performance Analysis
Several Celtic players stood out in what was an impressive team performance. Young defender Colby Donovan impressed at right-back, relishing his physical battle and providing the cross for Nygren's clinching goal.
Reo Hatate delivered a man-of-the-match performance, contributing a goal and an assist while controlling the midfield. His cross set up Yang's equaliser before he scored what proved to be the winner.
In attack, Daizen Maeda was relentless, forcing the error that led to Hatate's goal and supplying the assist for the third. The team showed solidity in defence and liveliness in attack throughout the match.
What This Means for Celtic's European Campaign
This victory represents Celtic's second win in the competition this season and moves them on to seven points in their group. The result keeps them firmly in contention for a Europa League play-off spot as the group stage approaches its conclusion.
The win was particularly sweet for interim boss Martin O'Neill, marking his final European match in charge of the team. His tactics proved spot-on as Celtic executed their game plan perfectly in the second half.
Attention now turns to their next European fixture, where they will host Serie A leaders Roma at Parkhead in a fortnight. Another victory in that match would significantly enhance Celtic's chances of progressing to the knockout stages of the competition.
