Celtic were defeated 4-0 by Paris Saint-Germain in a preseason friendly. Here are some of our final thoughts following the match.
Most Celtic fans knew heading into the preseason friendly against Paris Saint-Germain what the outcome would most likely be. However, as a supporter you always have that hope in the back of your mind that your club will be able to pull one off against the club that features Kylian Mbappé and Neymar.
Unfortunately, the Hoops lost 4-0, but not all was lost. Many fans will ask ‘why PSG so early?’ and that’s a fair question. But, if the Hoops were to have gone up against a second-tier club would we have learned anything? Despite going 0-2-1 against clubs like Nice, Lyon and PSG, so many positives have come about.
First, Celtic players were able to get a taste of what it is like to play against one of the most talented clubs in the world. That is something the club will have to get used to especially if it wants to succeed in the Champions League. The club cannot be afraid to face stiff competition and overcome adversity if it wants to take its next steps in Europe.
Secondly, while it may not be comfortable, weaknesses were highlighted through this French tour and especially against PSG. Goalkeeper is a no-brainer. While Scott Bain is and has been a loyal Bhoy, a younger much more talented keeper will be needed to ensure the results the club is looking for. Left-back was another area highlighted during the PSG match. Greg Taylor looked decent against incredible talent, but isn’t up to par with the rest of the backline. Boli Bolingoli-Mbombo is in the same ship.
Again, none of these are particularly worrying or even bad to point out, as long as they are addressed before the proper start to the 10-in-a-row season.
Finally, this may sound too optimistic, but a 4-0 showing for the club against PSG is nothing to scoff at. They have been in a great run of form defeating their last two opponents 7-0 and 9-0. The Hoops came dangerously close on at least three, arguably four occasions to add a goal. Christopher Jullien’s header off the left post represents the most dangerous attempt, and James Forrest just missed out on some opportunities.
Overall, it was a good and positive run out against one the world’s best clubs. Nothing to hang heads over, but some work will need to be done prior to the August 2nd kickoff.