Kuhn’s Double Inspires Celtic’s Dominant 3-1 Victory Over RB Leipzig in Champions League Classic
Celtic’s Champions League aspirations got a significant boost with a thrilling 3-1 victory over RB Leipzig, marking their second consecutive home win in the tournament. Nicolas Kuhn shone with a first-half brace, overturning an early Leipzig lead and setting Celtic on course for the win. RB Leipzig struck first when Christophe Baumgartner headed in from close range, seizing on a defensive slip. But Celtic responded decisively as Kuhn levelled with a beautiful, curling shot that clipped the post. Minutes later, he expertly finished Greg Taylor’s cross, sending Celtic into halftime with a 2-1 lead. The atmosphere at Celtic Park was electric, and it only intensified after the break. Reo Hatate capitalised on an error by Leipzig’s keeper, Peter Gulacsi, who failed to clear Alistair Johnston’s cross. Hatate pounced, making it 3-1 and putting the game out of reach. Celtic’s attack continued to push Leipzig’s defence, with Daizen Maeda finding the net in stoppage time, though it was disallowed for offside. Kuhn, who joined Celtic from Leipzig’s youth ranks after spells in Ajax, Bayern Munich, and Rapid Vienna, was instrumental throughout, showcasing both his attacking flair and defensive contributions. With this win, Celtic are now on seven points from four games, keeping them well-positioned for the knockout stages.
Preview: Celtic v RB Leipzig
Celtic Host RB Leipzig in Crucial Champions League Clash As Celtic continue to dominate domestic football, they welcome a RB Leipzig side desperate for their first win in Europe. Team Form RB Leipzig A 2-1 loss to Dortmund at the weekend put a dampener on Leipzig’s otherwise impressive Bundesliga campaign. Currently sitting second behind Bayern Munich, they have won six of their last eight matches, including a victory over champions Bayer Leverkusen. Not as all-out attacking as in previous seasons, manager Marco Rose has favoured a more balanced approach. Their backline, featuring Hungary’s Willi Orban and Peter Gulacsi—names Scottish fans may remember—has kept six clean sheets in nine league games. However, Europe tells a different story for the German side. Three losses to Atletico Madrid (2-1), Juventus (3-2), and Liverpool (1-0) have left Leipzig in dire need of a result at Celtic Park. Despite leading against both Atletico and Juventus, they conceded late goals—including two to a Juventus side down to ten men for over half an hour. Celtic Celtic have been dominant in the league, but their Premiership supremacy came under slight question following a 2-2 draw with Aberdeen. That doubt was swiftly dismissed when they thumped the Dons 6-0 in the Scottish League Cup semi-final, with manager Brendan Rodgers still demanding more from his players despite the commanding lead. Despite their domestic form, Celtic will be wary of their last outing against German opposition, a 7-1 defeat to Dortmund, which highlighted defensive vulnerabilities. However, a goalless draw against Europa League champions Atalanta showed improvement, though Rodgers knows the team must continue to prove themselves against Europe’s strongest sides. Players to Watch Benjamin Sesko While his league form may not be as prolific as that of his strike partner Lois Openda, Sesko has consistently delivered in the Champions League, scoring all three of Leipzig’s goals in the competition so far. Standing at 6’5”, the Slovenian international is technically skilled and capable of powerful shots, making him a nightmare for defenders. Comfortable with both feet and strong in the air, Sesko also shares the team’s top spot for assists. If he and Openda can handle the atmosphere at Celtic Park, Leipzig will have no shortage of scoring opportunities. Adam Idah It’s been a challenging season for Idah, with only two league goals. However, he has a reputation as a big-game player, having scored a last-minute winner against Rangers in the Scottish Cup final. At 6’3”, Idah’s height could pose a threat to Leipzig’s defence, particularly in aerial duels. With Leipzig’s vulnerability in the air exposed against Dortmund, Rodgers may look to Idah—likely from the bench—to physically challenge Leipzig’s defenders and offer a different attacking dimension. Team News – Celtic: Full squad available. – RB Leipzig: Key defender Castello Lukeba, playmaker Xavi Simons, David Raum, and Xaver Schlager are all sidelined.
Our Ultimate Groundhopper’s Guide to Scottish Football Stadiums
Our Ultimate Groundhopper’s Guide to Scottish Football Stadiums Scotland is home to a treasure trove of football grounds, each with its own character, history, and traditions. From the colossal Celtic Park in Glasgow to the picturesque and compact Gayfield Park in Arbroath, the Scottish football landscape offers an experience for every kind of groundhopper. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or just starting your groundhopping journey, this guide will take you from the Highlands to the Lowlands, through our pick of 17 of the 42 SPFL clubs and their stadiums, offering tips, quirks, and the best each ground has to offer. Glasgow’s Football Giants: The City’s Crown Jewels Celtic Park (Celtic FC) Capacity: 60,411 Experience: The atmosphere at “Paradise” is legendary, especially on big European nights or during the Old Firm derbies. Steeped in history, this is a pilgrimage site for football lovers worldwide. Top Tip: Arrive early to explore the Celtic Way Ibrox Stadium (Rangers FC) Capacity: 50,817 Experience: Known for its iconic red-brick facade and deafening support, Ibrox is a ground where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly. Top Tip: Visit the Bill Struth Main Stand to admire its unique architecture and pay homage to Rangers’ storied history. Firhill Stadium (Partick Thistle FC) Capacity: 10,102 Experience: The “Jags” bring their own charm to the Scottish game, with Firhill offering an authentic and friendly vibe. Top Tip: Grab a pint in the surrounding pubs – the local Partick crowd makes for great company. Edinburgh’s Historic Heart Tynecastle Park (Heart of Midlothian FC) Capacity: 20,099 Experience: A cauldron-like atmosphere awaits at Tynecastle, where fans sit close to the pitch, creating an intimate yet intense experience. Top Tip: Check out the famous Roseburn Stand for stunning views of the action, and make sure to join the locals for a pre-match singalong. Easter Road (Hibernian FC) Capacity: 20,421 Experience: Known for its passionate supporters and community feel, Easter Road offers one of the best atmospheres in Scotland, particularly during the Edinburgh derby. Top Tip: Make time for a post-match pint on Easter Road itself, where the streets are lined with welcoming pubs. A Highland Fling: The Northern Grounds Pittodrie Stadium (Aberdeen FC) Capacity: 20,866 Experience: One of the oldest stadiums in Scotland, Pittodrie is home to the famous “Red Shed,” where Dons fans show their colours with fervour. Top Tip: Experience the sea breeze from the North Sea – it adds a unique element to watching football up north. Caledonian Stadium (Inverness Caledonian Thistle FC) Capacity: 7,512 Experience: Set on the Moray Firth, this stadium offers breathtaking views of the water and distant mountains, making it a peaceful yet unique matchday experience. Top Tip: Bring a warm coat – Highland weather can be unforgiving, even in spring! Victoria Park (Ross County FC) Capacity: 6,541 Experience: Known as the “Staggies,” Ross County play in one of Scotland’s most intimate stadiums, making it easy to connect with the passionate locals. Top Tip: Sample some Highland hospitality and local fare – Victoria Park is famous for its friendly, welcoming vibe. Coastal Gems and Hidden Treasures Gayfield Park (Arbroath FC) Capacity: 6,600 Experience: Gayfield is literally a stone’s throw from the North Sea, making it the closest stadium to the sea in all of Britain. Beware the wind – it’s part of the game here! Top Tip: Try Arbroath’s famous smokies (smoked haddock) at a nearby chippy before or after the match. East End Park (Dunfermline Athletic FC) Capacity: 11,480 Experience: A historic ground in Fife with strong community roots and loyal support. Expect a friendly but lively atmosphere. Top Tip: The club museum offers a fascinating dive into the club’s history, perfect for the football historian. Cappielow Park (Greenock Morton FC) Capacity: 11,589 Experience: With one of the last remaining standing terraces in Scotland, Cappielow is an old-school experience where fans get up close and personal with the action. Top Tip: Cappielow’s pies are legendary among Scottish football fans – don’t miss out! Small but Mighty: Lower League Legends Ochilview Park (Stenhousemuir FC) Capacity: 3,746 Experience: A small yet characterful stadium with views of the Ochil Hills in the distance. Stenhousemuir prides itself on its welcoming local vibe. Top Tip: Enjoy the community feel and catch a glimpse of future talent – lower league Scottish games often showcase upcoming stars. Station Park (Forfar Athletic FC) Capacity: 6,777 Experience: Known for its small-town charm, Station Park is famed for its friendly fans and countryside setting. Top Tip: Sample the famous Forfar Bridie, a local pastry similar to a meat pie, available at the ground. Broadwood Stadium (Clyde FC) Capacity: 8,086 Experience: Although a relatively modern stadium, Broadwood offers fans close proximity to the action with a family-friendly feel. Top Tip: Clyde’s ground is in Cumbernauld, so plan your journey in advance, as it’s a little out of Glasgow’s centre. For the Football Purist Somerset Park (Ayr United FC) Capacity: 10,185 Experience: An old-school stadium with terraces that transport you back to a golden era of Scottish football. The raucous fans add to the excitement, especially on derby days. Top Tip: Visit the Supporters’ Club bar for a pint before the game – Ayr fans are among the friendliest around. Tannadice Park (Dundee United FC) Capacity: 14,223 Experience: Situated right next to Dens Park, Tannadice is compact but fierce, particularly when United face Dundee FC in the “Tayside Derby.” Top Tip: Tannadice’s unique location means you can actually visit two stadiums in one go – Dens Park is just a stone’s throw away. Dens Park (Dundee FC) Capacity: 11,506 Experience: Known for its steep stands, Dens Park offers some of the best sightlines in Scotland. Expect a gritty, hard-fought game whenever Dundee play at home. Top Tip: Sample a local Dundee delicacy, such as a “peh” (pie) – a game-day staple. The Groundhopper’s Dream Scotland’s stadiums are more than just venues – they’re cultural landmarks and places of passionate expression. From grand stadiums packed with tens of thousands of fans to cosy lower-league grounds where you’re practically on
Exploring Celtic Park: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Glasgow’s Legendary Stadium
A Brief History of Celtic Park Celtic Park opened its doors in 1892, just four years after the club’s founding. The original site, however, wasn’t the current location – Celtic Park initially sat a short distance away but was quickly moved to accommodate the club’s rapid growth. Since then, it has become Scotland’s largest football stadium, boasting a capacity of just over 60,000, with a legacy steeped in football history and cultural significance. Over the years, Celtic Park has undergone significant renovations, reflecting the club’s ambition and desire to offer fans a world-class venue. One of the most transformative periods came in the 1990s, when major renovations were completed to expand the stadium’s capacity and modernise its facilities. This update was driven in part by UEFA regulations, which required clubs in European competitions to upgrade their stadiums for fan safety and comfort. During this time, the iconic North Stand was constructed, bringing the stadium to its current capacity. The most recent renovations have focused on enhancing the fan experience, with improved seating, updated facilities, and expanded hospitality options. Celtic Park also prides itself on being accessible, with dedicated sections for disabled supporters and state-of-the-art facilities to ensure all fans feel welcome. Celtic Park is a space where tradition and modernity converge, offering an unforgettable experience for fans and visitors alike. It’s a place of pilgrimage, not just for Celtic fans but for football enthusiasts worldwide, and continues to set the standard for football stadiums across Europe. Celtic Park, affectionately known as “Paradise” by fans, is one of Europe’s most revered football venues and a must-visit for football enthusiasts visiting Glasgow. Nestled in the East End of Glasgow, it’s a beacon of Scottish football history, drawing thousands of fans and tourists eager to experience its electric atmosphere, explore its rich heritage, and walk in the footsteps of Celtic greats. Whether you’re here for a game or a stadium tour, here’s everything you need to know about visiting this iconic ground. Getting to Celtic Park By Public Transport: The stadium is well-connected by public transport. The most straightforward route from Glasgow city centre is by train, with Dalmarnock Station and Bellgrove Station both within a 15-minute walk from the stadium. Services from Glasgow Central Station to Dalmarnock take around 10 minutes, and trains run frequently on matchdays, making it a smooth and efficient option. Alternatively, buses from the city centre, such as the 61, 62, or 240, drop fans off close to the stadium. By Car: For those driving, Celtic Park is accessible via the M8 motorway. There is limited parking near the stadium, and surrounding streets fill up quickly on matchdays. To avoid the hassle, some fans opt to park in the city centre and take a train or bus to the ground. Note that parking restrictions are in place during events, so planning ahead is advised. By Bicycle: For the eco-conscious or those looking to see more of Glasgow, cycling to Celtic Park is a great option. There are cycling paths that connect the stadium with the city centre, and bike racks are available near the entrance. Experiencing Matchday at Celtic Park Attending a Celtic match at Celtic Park is an experience like no other. The roar of the 60,000 fans singing “You’ll Never Walk Alone” is something that reverberates through the stadium and the surrounding area. Fans are passionate, and the atmosphere in Paradise is electrifying, particularly during league-defining games or European nights, where the stadium truly comes alive. For those looking to capture the full Celtic Park experience, key matches against rivals like Rangers are highly sought-after, offering an atmosphere that’s second to none. Best Times to Visit: The Scottish Premiership season runs from August through May, with fixtures every other weekend, typically on Saturdays or Sundays. While any game at Celtic Park is bound to be memorable, attending evening European matches offers an extra sense of magic. For a quieter experience, early weekday games or friendlies offer an equally exciting atmosphere, minus the intense crowds. Getting Tickets for Matches Celtic FC is one of the most popular clubs in the UK, so securing tickets for big matches, especially those against Rangers or during European competitions, can be a challenge. Tickets are available on Celtic’s official website, with priority given to season ticket holders. Membership packages are also available, granting early access to tickets and additional perks. For those unable to grab a ticket directly, hospitality packages offer an upscale matchday experience and are easier to secure, especially for high-demand games. Pricing and Availability: Match ticket prices vary depending on the competition and seating location within the stadium, ranging from £30 to £55 for standard tickets. European games and Old Firm matches tend to be pricier and require early booking. Celtic Park Stadium Tours When there’s no match scheduled, a stadium tour offers a behind-the-scenes look into the heart of Celtic Park. These tours are a brilliant way to experience the club’s rich history and access areas usually off-limits to the public, including the dressing rooms, pitchside, and the famous tunnel that’s seen countless players walk through it over the years. Tour Details: Tours last about an hour and a half, led by knowledgeable guides who are often lifelong fans, offering fascinating insights into the club’s history, from its founding in 1888 to its modern-day successes. Highlights include the Boardroom, where Celtic’s honours are proudly displayed, the dressing room, and pitchside, where you can step into the technical area and view the field from the manager’s perspective. Best Time for Tours: Tours run on non-matchdays, with several slots available daily. The quieter weekdays allow for a more intimate experience, while weekends can be busier with fans from all over the world. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during the peak football season and around holidays, when the club welcomes fans from far and wide. Tips for a Memorable Visit Arrive Early: Matchdays at Celtic Park draw huge crowds. Arriving early lets you soak up the atmosphere,