The Wilfried Nancy era at Celtic Park is proving to be a rollercoaster of emotions for supporters. While the French manager's philosophy promises scintillating, attack-minded football, it is equally characterised by defensive chaos that leaves hearts in mouths. This duality was on full display during Celtic's frantic but ultimately successful 4-2 away victory over Livingston, a result that moves the Glasgow side to within three points of league leaders Hearts.
A Chaotic Start Sets the Tone
The match at the Tony Macaroni Arena was a microcosm of Celtic's season under Nancy. The visitors found themselves behind after just eight minutes due to a self-inflicted wound. A slack pass from Kieran Tierney was intercepted by Livingston's Cristian Montano, who powered forward, evaded a challenge from Yang Hyun-jun, and fired a fierce strike past stand-in goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo.
Character, a trait often questioned in this squad, was shown in the immediate response. Within minutes, Celtic were level. An Arne Engels corner was met by Daizen Maeda, with the ball falling kindly for Benjamin Nygren to tap in unmarked at the back post. The relief was short-lived, however, as more defensive uncertainty allowed Montano to strike again, restoring Livingston's lead after Maeda was easily dispossessed in a dangerous area.
Quality in Attack Secures the Points
Undeterred by the chaos behind them, Celtic's forward players took control. Yang Hyun-jun redeemed his earlier defensive lapse by poking home from close range to make it 2-2. The game then turned decisively in Celtic's favour just after the half-hour mark, courtesy of a moment of pure quality. Benjamin Nygren curled a superb effort in off the far post for his tenth goal of the campaign, giving Celtic a lead they would not relinquish.
The points were effectively sealed before half-time when Arne Engels converted a penalty, awarded after a VAR review for handball against Daniel Finlayson. The 4-2 scoreline at the interval reflected Celtic's undeniable threat going forward but papered over significant cracks.
Defensive Issues Remain a Glaring Concern
Despite the comfortable lead, the second half followed a familiar pattern. Livingston, still searching for their first league win since August, created several chances to reduce the deficit. Auston Trusty was required to make several crucial last-ditch interventions, notably bailing out Anthony Ralston on more than one occasion. Substitute Jeremy Bokila missed a glaring opportunity from ten yards, summing up Livingston's finishing but also highlighting the space Celtic afforded.
Post-match, Nancy has consistently focused on the positives, and the attacking verve is undeniable. The performances of Nygren and Engels, who controlled midfield, are major pluses. However, the statistics are alarming: Celtic have now conceded 13 goals in their last six matches across all competitions. This persistent vulnerability will be tested sternly in the coming fixtures.
Looking Ahead: Momentum Builds But Questions Linger
This victory marks a second win in a week for Nancy, building positive momentum after a difficult start to his tenure. The gap to Hearts is now just three points, with a game in hand. However, the upcoming trip to face Motherwell at Fir Park on Tuesday presents another significant challenge for a defence that seems perpetually on the brink of a calamity.
For Livingston manager David Martindale, the search for a consistent goal-scorer becomes ever more urgent as his side's winless run extends. For Wilfried Nancy, the mission is clear: find a balance between his adventurous attacking principles and basic defensive solidity. The Celtic support is slowly being won over by the entertainment on offer, but for this philosophy to translate into sustained success, the frantic football must become more controlled. The ride is exhilarating, but everyone at Parkhead hopes it leads to a tangible destination.
