Celtic never make it easy for themselves, do they?
The Scottish champions have failed to find any consistency in Europe over the last few years. In 2012 they recorded a famous 2-1 win over Barcelona in the Champions League group stages – with the Catalans only getting on the score sheet thanks to an injury time consolation from Lionel Messi.
Two years later, the Bhoys crashed out of the Champions League at the play off stage following a limp defeat to Slovenian side Maribor – and that’s only after making it through the previous round despite a 6-1 aggregate defeat because Legia Warsaw used a suspended player.
In short, Celtic’s current relationship with the European Cup is a far cry from their all-conquering campaign of 1966/67.
On Tuesday night, the Glasgow side were hoping to once again reach the group stages of Europe’s premier club competition after a year in the wilderness.
Coming into the second leg against Hapoel Be’er Sheva in Israel, Celtic held a 5-2 advantage. All they had to do was keep their focus and take advantage of their three-goal lead.
It did not work.
Little over 20 minutes into the game, and the home side went in front. It wasn’t panic stations yet for the Scottish side, but then in the 48th minute, this happened:
Although one more goal would have seen the Israelis through on away goals, the Scottish champions managed to hold on and will take their place among Europe’s elite once more, winning the tie 5-4 on aggregate, after losing 2-0 on the night.
But we’re sure manager Brendan Rodgers will have many sleepless nights trying to sort out their defensive solidity before the group stages start in September.
Meanwhile, Rangers midfielder Joey Barton wasn’t about to miss a chance to poke fun at Celtic’s awkward night.
Watching that Champions League Qualifier and thinking…https://t.co/lXjKKzFxl6
— 👑 Joey Barton 👑 (@Joey7Barton) August 23, 2016
