Celtic Archives - Page 7 of 8

Chelsea Cornet’s Stunning Strike Seals Rangers’ Triumph in SWPL Thriller

Chelsea Cornet’s brilliant goal sealed a crucial win for Rangers against Celtic, extending their lead in the SWPL to four points. The substitute delivered a moment of magic in the 78th minute, lofting the ball over Bruna Lourenco before volleying past goalkeeper Kelsey Daugherty to secure the victory. Defending champions Celtic had twice fought back from behind, with Saoirse Noonan’s stunning free-kick cancelling out Katie Wilkinson’s penalty after first-half goals from Rio Hardy for Rangers and Caitlin Hayes for Celtic. Glasgow City, overnight leaders, have the chance to regain top spot by beating Queen’s Park later in the day. Elsewhere, Hearts face Hibernian in a match broadcast live on BBC Alba, iPlayer, and the BBC Sport website, with the potential to move four points clear of Celtic. Rangers started brightly, with Nicola Docherty’s header forcing an outstanding save from Daugherty. Hardy soon broke the deadlock for the visitors, her shot deflecting off Kelly Clark and looping over the keeper. Celtic responded when Emma Lawton’s pinpoint cross set up Hayes to head in her first league goal of the season. Rangers regained the lead after Charlie Devlin was fouled by Shannon McGregor, earning a penalty that Wilkinson converted with confidence. Celtic head coach Elena Sadiku was sent to the stands following the penalty decision, but she witnessed her team’s second equaliser shortly after. Noonan’s perfectly struck free-kick from the edge of the box left Jenna Fife with no chance. Celtic pushed hard to take the lead, with Noonan and Hayes firing wide and Murphy Agnew lifting a chance over the bar. At the other end, Daugherty denied Maclean before Cornet made her mark. Pouncing on a loose clearance, she calmly found the net with an audacious lob. Celtic had one last chance, but Fife’s quick reactions denied Agnew’s low shot, securing Rangers’ hard-fought victory. Full time: Celtic 2-3 Rangers

November 17, 2024

Celtic Set for £7M Payday as Ex-Star Frimpong Eyes Big-Money Liverpool Move!

Celtic have become masters of the transfer market, raking in millions by spotting talent on the cheap and selling players on for hefty profits. Now, the club could be about to cash in big—without even selling anyone. The latest buzz surrounds former Hoops right-back Jeremie Frimpong, who left Parkhead in 2021 for Bayer Leverkusen in a deal worth £11.5m. Fast forward to today, and the Dutch international is catching the eye of European giants like Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Manchester City. Reports suggest Liverpool are considering Frimpong as a replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold and are ready to trigger his £35m release clause. Here’s where it gets interesting for Celtic. A 30% sell-on clause in Frimpong’s deal means the Scottish champions stand to pocket around £7m if the transfer happens—a tidy windfall for a player who cost just £350,000 back in 2019. This isn’t a one-off, either. Celtic have turned bargain buys into big-money sales time and again. Matt O’Riley, bought for £1.5m, was sold to Brighton for £26m, while Jota and Kieran Tierney also fetched similar fees. Add Odsonne Edouard, Kristoffer Ajer, and Josip Juranovic to the mix, and it’s clear Celtic’s recruitment strategy is a well-oiled money-making machine. What’s more, the club’s financial position has never looked better. This year alone, Celtic made a profit despite splashing £20m on summer signings Arne Engels and Adam Idah. With £40m rolling in from their revamped Champions League campaign and another potential £20m-plus sale on the horizon with Nicolas Kuhn, the Parkhead bank balance is soaring, currently sitting at a record £77m. The Frimpong deal could be the cherry on top, proving yet again that Celtic’s transfer game is in a league of its own.

November 15, 2024

Rumours Zone: Schmeichel, Deeney, MacLeod, and More

Celtic and Rangers are prepared to make a move for 18-year-old midfielder Lennon Miller, but Motherwell is expected to hold out for a £4m fee for the Scotland Under-19 international (Daily Mail). Meanwhile, Rangers are keeping tabs on FCSB midfielder Darius Olaru, though the Romanian club would likely demand a substantial fee for the 26-year-old, who is contracted until 2028. Given Rangers’ current financial situation, this may prove challenging for the Scottish Premiership side. Celtic goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel anticipates a decision early next year regarding whether the club will activate a 12-month extension option in his contract, keeping the 38-year-old beyond the summer. (Tipsbladet) Troy Deeney reveals he turned down a £40,000-a-week offer from Celtic, choosing instead to sign with Birmingham City for £12,000 weekly after his release from Watford two years ago. (Under The Cosh podcast) St Johnstone are consulting with Benji Kimpioka and his agent as they aim to secure the Swedish striker’s future with an extended contract beyond next summer, before the 24-year-old is free to engage with other clubs in January. (The Courier) Empoli midfielder Liam Henderson is keen to stay in Italy beyond next summer, although the 28-year-old Scot has yet to be offered a contract extension despite making 14 appearances for the Serie A club this season. (Edinburgh Evening News) Scotland Under-19 winger Rory MacLeod hopes to make his loan from Dundee United to Southampton permanent, believing the move to the Premier League club has advanced his career. Southampton holds two options to buy him—one in January and one in the summer. (The Courier) Dundee managing director John Nelms has revealed the Premiership club could receive an additional financial boost in the future following 17-year-old centre-back Seb Lochhead’s £300,000 transfer to Wolverhampton Wanderers in August. (The Scotsman) Hibernian are preparing to recall Rory Whittaker from his loan at Spartans in January, concerned that the lack of game time with the League 2 club is limiting the 17-year-old right-back’s development. (Edinburgh Evening News) An American-based consortium is in advanced talks to acquire Dunfermline Athletic, with negotiations underway for a seven-figure purchase of the Scottish Championship club from current German owner DAFC Fussball GmbH. (Daily Record) Aberdeen manager Jimmy Thelin emphasises that securing European football again is crucial for the Premiership club’s ambition to establish a sustained challenge at the top of Scottish football. (Daily Record)

November 14, 2024

Resilient Celtic Push Chelsea to Their Limits in Historic Champions League Clash

Chelsea, though not at their best, managed to edge out a resilient Celtic side, maintaining their lead in Group B of the Women’s Champions League. Chelsea’s coach Sonia Bompastor made several line-up adjustments for the trip to Glasgow, and her team had to dig deep to preserve her unbeaten run as manager. It was a landmark night at Celtic Park, hosting its first Women’s Champions League game, and history was made once more. Defying expectations, the Scottish champions struck first. Murphy Agnew broke away from the Chelsea defence, connecting with a superbly curved pass from Amy Gallacher, scoring Celtic’s inaugural goal of the group stage. The goal spurred the Super League champions into action, and just six minutes later, they levelled as Maika Hamano outsmarted Celtic’s keeper, Kelsey Daugherty. Chelsea took the lead within another four minutes, capitalising on a counter-attack as Ashley Lawrence sent a powerful shot into the top of the net, turning the momentum in the first of two back-to-back UK showdowns. Spectators may have anticipated Celtic struggling to keep up, yet they fought admirably throughout a lively second half. Lucy Ashworth-Clifford was a constant threat down the left, delivering a series of dangerous crosses, while Daugherty’s impressive saves kept the game within reach. Though the score remained close, Celtic couldn’t find an equaliser. A red card for Agnes Beever-Jones in stoppage time came too late to be impactful, sealing Celtic’s third defeat in their debut Champions League campaign. Scottish Champions Show Progress and Determination The atmosphere at Celtic Park was electric, reminiscent of when Celtic secured their first SWPL title in May. Their unexpected lead after 22 minutes sent the home crowd into a frenzy. Gallacher’s assist for Agnew showcased the kind of fluid play seen in the SWPL but had been missing in earlier defeats to Twente and Real Madrid. Coach Elena Sadiku noted her team’s progress, which was evident again here. Emma Lawton, who was playing part-time football just months ago, was impressive in containing Guro Reiten, while Shannon McGregor excelled in midfield. Celtic held off Chelsea’s attacks for much of the game, even as fatigue from their recent 120-minute match against Glasgow City began to show. Ashworth-Clifford displayed remarkable energy, showing no hesitation facing Champions League veteran Lucy Bronze, who entered at halftime. Despite concerns of a heavy defeat, the Scottish champions left the field with their pride intact after a spirited performance. Chelsea Push Through Despite Fatigue and Changes Bompastor made bold decisions, resting key players ahead of a weekend clash with Manchester City, resulting in a sluggish start for her side. However, after falling behind, Chelsea’s quality began to emerge, though inconsistently. Bompastor expressed frustration on the sidelines as Chelsea struggled to secure a decisive lead in the second half, with Daugherty’s sharp goalkeeping contributing to the close scoreline. It wasn’t the straightforward win Chelsea may have hoped for, but as a warm-up for their upcoming WSL top-of-the-table clash, it provided a challenging test. Full time: Celtic 1-2 Chelsea Post-Match Reactions Chelsea and Scotland midfielder Erin Cuthbert remarked: “The three points are the highlight tonight. Our performance could have been better, but with games every three days, we keep looking forward.” “The atmosphere was intense – I got some stick from the crowd, but I enjoyed it. Celtic were disciplined, organised, and gave us a tough game. We’ll aim to improve for next week.” Celtic head coach Elena Sadiku commented: “Disappointed with the result, but extremely proud of my players. We’re growing more confident and showing we can compete.” “We played some brilliant football, were fearless, and managed to break through Chelsea’s pressure.”

November 14, 2024

Celtic Ready to Test Themselves Against Champions Chelsea: A Night of Passion and Rivalry at Celtic Park

As Celtic prepare for their crucial Champions League clash against Chelsea on Wednesday, head coach Elena Sadiku and Scotland forward Erin Cuthbert have shared their thoughts on what promises to be a fiercely competitive match. Here are some of the key insights they offered ahead of the game. Sadiku: “A Bigger Test Than This? I Don’t Think So Elena Sadiku acknowledges the scale of the challenge Celtic face against Chelsea, reigning Women’s Super League champions. “I don’t think we’re going to have a bigger test than this,” Sadiku remarked, underscoring her respect for Chelsea’s strengths and capabilities. But respect goes beyond Chelsea’s players alone; Sadiku also has a deep admiration for Chelsea’s head coach, Sonia Bompastor, saying, “how she’s perceived as a coach is how I want to be perceived.” This personal aspiration adds a layer of intensity to the upcoming encounter as Celtic aim to prove themselves on a stage of this magnitude. Growth Through the Competition Reflecting on Celtic’s Champions League journey so far, Sadiku believes her team has shown steady improvement. She pointed to the contrast between their performances against Twente in the opener and Real Madrid in their second game, saying, “Against Real Madrid, we were confident enough to play, we got pressure on, we love the pressure, and we just showed no fear in what we want to do.” Celtic’s progression and self-assurance suggest they’re embracing the challenges, growing stronger as they move through the competition. Support at Celtic Park: A Historic Night This game marks the first time Celtic’s women’s team will play a Champions League match at Celtic Park, an occasion Sadiku hopes fans won’t miss. She urged, “If you’re a Celtic fan, you should support the big history the club are creating.” The atmosphere in the iconic stadium will be critical as Celtic look to rally their fans for a historic night. Injury Update: Two Absentees Defender Hana Kerner and forward Kit Loferski are confirmed absentees for Wednesday’s match, while Caitlin Hayes, who missed the last two games, is expected to return. Sadiku addressed recent speculation surrounding Hayes’ absence, clarifying that she’s simply been “resting,” dispelling any rumours of suspension. Erin Cuthbert: Thriving in a ‘Hostile’ Environment Meanwhile, Chelsea’s Erin Cuthbert, who will be returning to Glasgow for the match, is fully aware that she might not receive a warm welcome. Coming from a family of Rangers supporters, the Scotland international knows the Celtic crowd will be less than welcoming but welcomes the challenge. “As a football player, see if you get a bit of a hostile reception, I think it’s the best thing,” Cuthbert said, unfazed by the prospect. Cuthbert’s confidence in handling tough crowds comes from experience: “We’ve played at the Emirates many times… we’re used to playing in big games where there is an atmosphere, and the opposition wants to make it as difficult as possible.” This resilience has been central to her development from a young player working at Morrison’s to a key figure in one of the world’s biggest clubs. Head coach Sonia Bompastor describes her as “a leader,” and Cuthbert herself sees this return to Glasgow as a moment of reflection. “It’s a moment to reflect on how far I’ve come, but also how much work I’ve still got to do and how far I can go.” Celtic vs Chelsea: A Battle of Belief and Growth As both sides gear up for this Champions League showdown, Celtic will look to demonstrate their growth and grit against a Chelsea side hungry for victory. With Sadiku’s admiration for her counterpart and Cuthbert’s resilience, Wednesday night promises an unforgettable spectacle at Celtic Park. Fans can expect a display of ambition, rivalry, and the enduring passion of Scottish football.

November 13, 2024

Celtic Away Day Guide: GNK Dinamo Zagreb

For the Celtic faithful heading to Zagreb on 10 December, here’s a guide on where to stay, eat, and soak up the atmosphere before the big match against GNK Dinamo Zagreb. This city offers a blend of history, local flavours, and lively culture, so there’s plenty to enjoy alongside the football! A Snapshot of GNK Dinamo Zagreb and Stadion Maksimir Founded in 1945, GNK Dinamo Zagreb is Croatia’s most successful club, winning numerous league titles and regularly appearing in European competitions. They play at Stadion Maksimir, an iconic 35,000-seat venue known for its loud and intense atmosphere. Dinamo’s ultras, the Bad Blue Boys, are particularly passionate, creating an energy that can be both impressive and intimidating for visiting fans. Expect a lively setting with high security, especially in the away section. Where to Stay Hotel Esplanade Zagreb This historic hotel, near Zagreb’s main train station, is one of the city’s grandest places to stay. Built in 1925, it blends Art Deco style with modern luxury, making it perfect if you’re looking to indulge and stay close to top attractions. Canopy by Hilton Zagreb A stylish choice that mixes local flair with modern comfort, Canopy by Hilton is centrally located and offers a trendy, relaxed atmosphere with a focus on Croatian decor and food. Great for fans looking for both comfort and local charm. Hostel Shappy For budget-conscious fans, Hostel Shappy is located right in the heart of the city, providing affordable and lively accommodation with a welcoming vibe for travellers and fans alike. Top Spots to Eat and Drink La Štruk Located near Zagreb’s main square, La Štruk serves traditional Croatian strukli—a local speciality of cheese-filled dough baked to perfection. It’s a must-try and a convenient, hearty meal before or after the match. Craft Room Popular among locals and visitors alike, Craft Room is a cosy pub offering a great selection of Croatian craft beers and pub-style bites. Perfect for a casual pre-match drink. Mali Bar If you’re in the mood for something more modern, Mali Bar provides a creative take on Croatian cuisine, with seasonal dishes and small plates. This trendy spot is ideal for fans looking to sample Croatian flavours in a lively atmosphere. Vinodol For those wanting a proper sit-down meal, Vinodol serves classic Mediterranean and Croatian dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Known for its delicious meat and seafood options, it’s a favourite for those wanting a more refined pre-game meal. Things to Do in Zagreb Explore Gornji Grad (Upper Town) Wander through the historic cobbled streets of Gornji Grad, where you’ll find landmarks like St. Mark’s Church with its iconic tiled roof. The area also has charming cafes and some of the best views of the city. Check Out Dolac Market Zagreb’s central market is bustling with local vendors selling fresh produce, cheeses, and traditional foods. It’s a great spot to get a feel for Zagreb’s everyday life and maybe pick up a snack for later. Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships This quirky museum, filled with mementos and stories from around the world, is a unique experience. It’s a popular stop in Zagreb, offering an unusual and often humorous take on human connections. Matchday Essentials Tickets: Check with Celtic’s official site for details on away tickets, as Stadion Maksimir usually fills up quickly for European fixtures. Getting There: Stadion Maksimir is around 3km from the city centre. Trams 4, 7, and 11 will take you close to the stadium, and they run frequently on matchdays. Aim to arrive early, as the trams can get busy. Stadium Tips: The home fans are known for their spirited support, so be mindful when travelling to and from the game. Away fans have designated sections, so follow directions from security and stay together for a smooth experience. With great food, lively culture, and intense football passion, Zagreb promises an unforgettable away day for Celtic fans.

November 10, 2024

Celtic Edge Past Resilient Kilmarnock to Return to Premiership Summit

Celtic reclaimed their spot at the top of the Scottish Premiership, edging out a resilient Kilmarnock side in a high-stakes encounter, thanks to decisive moments from Callum McGregor and Nicolas Kuhn that preserved their unbeaten league run. This match was anything but a routine outing for the defending champions. Kilmarnock’s intensity and tactical ingenuity—led by Derek McInnes—saw them pressing high, fielding two strikers, and sending Corrie Ndaba forward from defence, putting Celtic under constant pressure. Kilmarnock’s early promise almost paid off when Marley Watkins struck the post after beating Celtic’s keeper, Kasper Schmeichel, in a tense one-on-one. It felt like McInnes’ side might be on the verge of an upset. Vassell’s shot was deflected, adding to the frustration, and Celtic only just managed to repel wave after wave of Kilmarnock attacks. But as halftime loomed, McGregor found his moment. After orchestrating a forward movement, his lofted cross bypassed both his teammate and Kilmarnock’s keeper, Robby McCrorie, to find the back of the net—a goal that was a hard blow for the home side, given the balance of play. Undeterred, Kilmarnock fought on, with Innes Cameron and Brad Lyons keeping the Celtic defence on edge. Schmeichel again came to Celtic’s rescue, saving brilliantly from Matty Kennedy, before Kuhn put the game beyond doubt, latching onto a pass from Alistair Johnston and finishing clinically. The German’s composure in front of goal once again proved pivotal. Despite the narrow loss, Kilmarnock left the pitch with heads held high. Their pressing game and brave man-to-man tactics made life difficult for Celtic, and their intensity disrupted the champions’ rhythm repeatedly. This display suggests that Kilmarnock’s league position could rise swiftly if they maintain this level of play. For Celtic, this game was a reminder of the grit required to defend their title. McGregor’s leadership and Kuhn’s relentless scoring form underscore their resilience. Emerging victorious from such a grueling encounter should please Brendan Rodgers, as it’s precisely these hard-fought wins that can define a championship season.

November 10, 2024

Scottish Premiership Sunday Preview: Kilmarnock v Celtic and Rangers v Hearts

Kilmarnock v Celtic (15:00 GMT) Kilmarnock faces a setback as key defender Stuart Findlay is out for several months following an ankle injury at Dundee. Midfielder Liam Polworth could return to bolster the squad, while Kyle Magennis continues his recovery. Celtic, meanwhile, sees slight concerns with American centre-backs Cameron Carter-Vickers and Auston Trusty, who both missed Friday’s training but may still feature. Odin Thiago Holm, however, remains sidelined with ongoing calf issues. Rangers v Hearts (17:00 GMT) Rangers welcome Ianis Hagi and Danilo back into the squad, as they weren’t included in the recent European lineup. Ridvan Yilmaz and Rabbi Matondo may also make appearances, though Oscar Cortes isn’t quite ready. Tom Lawrence, unfortunately, is out for up to six weeks due to a leg injury. Hearts head coach Neil Critchley has no new fitness concerns and is likely to pick an unchanged side. Yutaro Oda and Calem Nieuwenhof are nearing a return but aren’t expected to feature at Ibrox.

November 10, 2024

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.

November 5, 2024

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.

November 5, 2024

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