Celtic 2-0 AZ Alkmaar: 3 things we learned as Kyogo scores again

Joe Hart is looking like a good addition for Celtic

Goalkeeping had been a worry for Celtic last season as Vasilis Barkas, Scott Bain and Conor Hazard all received runs in the first-team but none of them were able to make the starting gloves their own.

Even then, there were a few eyebrows raised when the Hoops decided to sign Hart this summer. While a brilliant goalkeeper in his prime, the 34-year-old had not been a first-team regular for a few years now.

He has come in though and looks like is quickly finding his feet at Parkhead. He made a big save against AZ Alkmaar, and it looks like his experience has also helped the backline settle down a bit. Thus, he looks like a good addition to this squad and could be a first-team starter for the Hoops for the foreseeable future.

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This tie is not over yet but Celtic must be delighted

It is safe to say that the tie is not over yet despite the Hoops’ 2-0 victory in the first-leg. AZ Alkmaar are a good team and are very capable of turning things around. Even in this game, they had their moments but just could not find a way to score.

As a result, Ange Postecoglou’s side must be at the top of their game in the second leg of their UEFA Europa League play-off round tie against the Dutch side.

Overall though, the Hoops should be absolutely delighted with their performance on the night. A 2-0 lead heading into the second leg gives them space to breath and despite AZ Alkmaar’s undeniable quality, it will be a tough task for them.

If Postecoglou’s side can make sure that they do not concede more than once in the return leg then they will be through to the group stage of the Europa League.