BREAKING: Celtic suffered a stunning 3-1 defeat against FC Midtjylland in the Europa League, delivering a severe blow to their knockout stage aspirations. The setback unfolded at the MCH Arena in Herning on September 20, 2023, as the Danes scored three goals in a devastating eight-minute span during the first half.
Celtic’s interim manager, Martin O’Neill, expressed disappointment, stating, “It was a tough evening, there’s no question about it.” The team was left reeling after conceding two goals within 90 seconds, which drastically shifted the momentum of the match. O’Neill acknowledged the challenge posed by Midtjylland, saying, “They’re a very fine side, there’s no question about it.”
The match began ominously for Celtic when Croatian defender Martin Erlic opened the scoring for Midtjylland. Goals from Mikel Gogorza and Franculino Dju followed, leaving the Scottish champions trailing by three at the break.
In a glimmer of hope, teenage substitute Callum Osmand won a penalty late in the match, which Reo Hatate successfully converted. However, the joy was short-lived as Osmand suffered a hamstring injury, leaving the field in tears. O’Neill provided an update, saying, “He’s pulled a hamstring… he was distraught because he was just trying to get his career going.”
Celtic now finds themselves with only four points from four games, significantly behind in their group. O’Neill noted that while the loss was a harsh lesson, he remains hopeful, stating, “I suppose I probably always thought that 10 points would probably get you through, so we’re not out of it.”
The defeat marks a stark contrast to Celtic’s recent successes, which included a 4-0 victory over Falkirk and a win against Old Firm rivals Rangers to reach the Premier Sports Cup final.
Fans and analysts alike are now questioning whether this defeat will derail Celtic’s ambitions in Europe. The immediate focus for O’Neill and his squad will be on recovery and regrouping for their next matches.
As the fallout from this match continues, Celtic supporters will be eagerly awaiting updates on Osmand’s condition and the team’s strategy moving forward.
