CELTIC have kept their Europa League dream alive after a chaotic but clinical 4-2 victory over Utrecht at a rocking Parkhead.
Martin O’Neill’s men survived a mid-match wobble to finish 21st in the league phase, ensuring their European journey continues into the knockout play-offs. A whirlwind start saw the Hoops race into a 3-0 lead within just 19 minutes—the fastest they have ever achieved that feat in major European competition.
Blitz at the East End
The Gaffer called for his side to “go for it” pre-match, and they didn’t disappoint. Benjamin Nygren tapped home a Kieran Tierney cross before an own-goal from Nick Viergever—gifted by a horror pass from former Hoops keeper Vasilis Barkas—doubled the lead. When Arne Engels buried a VAR-awarded penalty, Paradise was in party mode.
However, the Dutch side refused to lie down. Dani de Wit and a 30-yard screamer from Adrian Blake pulled Utrecht back within one, briefly silencing the home crowd as familiar defensive jitters crept in.
Trusty Finds the Touch
With nerves fraying, Auston Trusty rose highest to thunder home an Engels corner, restoring the two-goal cushion and securing the result. In doing so, Trusty became the first American defender to net multiple goals in a single major European campaign.
“Progression was the be-all and end-all,” O’Neill noted post-match. The victory not only keeps the season alive but serves as a massive carrot for the “five secret signings” the board are reportedly chasing before Monday’s deadline.
The Schmeichel Question
Despite the win, question marks remain over Kasper Schmeichel. While the veteran produced a world-class save to deny Vesterlund, his statuesque reaction to De Wit’s opener and his failure to stop Blake’s long-range effort will heighten calls for the board to look for a new No. 1 before the window slams shut.
Hoops fans—we’re through! Who do you want in Friday’s draw: Stuttgart or Ferencvaros? And does MON need to sign a new keeper on Monday? Let us know below!
Co-Founder of Fitba Focus and MMA UK. A lifelong Rangers fan and former player, he combines over a decade of sports media experience with a deep-seated passion for the Scottish game. From the Ibrox stands to the lower-league terraces, Frankie is dedicated to providing honest, fan-led analysis of the full Scottish pyramid.
