Celtic exit might have huge consequences for Scottish football

Celtic have potentially hurt Scotland’s chances of earning two Champions League qualifying spots for next season after exiting the Europa League.

Celtic saw its exit from the Europa League and European competition on Thursday when it lost to FC Copenhagen 3-1 at home. Prior to the loss, the Hoops and cross-town rivals Rangers were helping build Scotland’s coefficient for access to the Champions League.

Between the two Glaswegian clubs, Scotland’s coefficient had increased to 13th place, good enough for two qualifying spots in the UEFA Champions League for next season. However, countries like Greece and Switzerland sit just behind thanks to efforts from Olympiakos and Basel.

Had the Hoops seen their way past FC Copenhagen on Thursday evening, Scotland would have been guaranteed two spots in the  qualifying rounds of the Champions League and an additional spot in the Europa League qualifying berth. That would have ensured that three Scottish clubs would have seen European competition. Always a good thing for Scotland.

Now, with Celtic’s surprising early exit, those spots may be in jeopardy. Scotland will need to remain in the top-15 of countries in terms of coefficient. This remains very plausible, because as the Daily Record points out, it would require Olympiakos to make the semi-final AND Basel to make the finals in the Europa League.

Both of these scenarios remain improbable. It is also worth noting that Rangers can also continue to build the coefficient of Scotland by continuing to progress through the Europa League this season.

While it may be difficult to do, wanting Rangers to succeed in the Europa League could pay huge dividends next season when the Hoops try to qualify for the coveted Champions League Group Stage. The path next season would be much easier than this year if Scotland can remain in the top-15.