Interim manager Martin O'Neill orchestrated a memorable European night for Celtic, overseeing a stunning 3-1 comeback victory against Feyenoord in Rotterdam. The win, the club's first away triumph on the continent in four years, served as a fitting farewell for the 73-year-old, who will hand over the reins to Wilfried Nancy after this weekend.
A Night of Emotion and Resilience
The match began poorly for the Scottish champions, who fell behind to an Ayase Ueda goal in the 11th minute. However, displaying a composure often missing from their recent European performances, Celtic roared back before half-time. Goals from Yang Hyun-jun and Reo Hatate turned the match on its head, completely shifting the momentum.
The victory was sealed eight minutes from time when substitute Benjamin Nygren powered home a decisive third goal. The insipid defeat left the home side, managed by Robin van Persie, being jeered off the pitch by their furious supporters.
O'Neill's Perfect Send-Off and European Challenge
At the full-time whistle, O'Neill was serenaded by the travelling Celtic fans inside De Kuip, marking an emotional end to his brief interim tenure. When asked if it was the perfect way to bow out, he stated, "Absolutely. I'm thrilled for the team." He acknowledged a touch of selfishness but celebrated a famous away victory at a tough venue.
Looking ahead, O'Neill immediately challenged his soon-to-be former squad to build on this result and push for qualification in the Europa League knockout stages. He suggested that, judging by last season's format, the team would likely need 10 or 11 points to progress.
"It won't be easy," O'Neill cautioned, referencing upcoming home games against Roma and Utrecht, with a match against Bologna in between. "But the confidence is in the side now. It's up to them to drive it on. Winning away from home is terrific. That's not easy in Europe, it's certainly not easy here."
Restoring Belief and a Dominant Display
The interim boss was effusive in his praise for the players, highlighting their dominant spell after equalising. "We played really, really well," he said. "There was a fairly lengthy period where we were totally dominant, controlling the ball and exuding a lot of confidence."
He emphasised the importance of the restoration of confidence, noting that the team could have crumbled after going a goal down but instead showed immense character and resilience. This victory marks O'Neill's fifth win in six matches since taking temporary charge following Brendan Rodgers' departure.
Reflecting on his short time in charge, O'Neill shared a light-hearted anecdote about his family's reaction. "My two daughters were all for going for it [taking the job] and my wife said you'll probably mess it up!" he revealed. "I haven't messed it up—so far." With his final game against Hibs on Sunday, O'Neill can reflect on a job well done, having successfully steadied the ship and delivered a night of European glory.
