It is no secret that there is a connection between Celtic and Athletic Bilbao, and the two clubs have enjoyed a great relationship over the years. James Forrest even played his testimonial match against the La Liga club a couple of years back. And the Basque team recently became even more popular among Glasgow's green-and-white supporters by eliminating the Rangers from the Europa League.
The first leg had been a goalless draw. Barry Ferguson's side could not go away from home and get a result in Spain though, losing 2-0 at the hands of Athletic Bilbao. Oihan Sancet put them ahead from the spot and then Nico Williams scored in the 80th minute to put the game and the quarter-final to bed.
Surely, Celtic fans would have enjoyed watching that on their television sets. They had a strong presence at San Mames at the same time though.
There were plenty of Celtic flags and jerseys visible in the stands, amongst the Athletic Bilbao supporters. A flag was even pictured in a post during the match from the club's official account, praising the atmosphere. Look near the top of the image and you'll see a part of the Hoops' crest.
🔥 Nothing like The Cathedral on night like this.
— Athletic Club (@Athletic_en) April 17, 2025
Let's push together until the very end, Lions!
⌚ 79'
1-0 I #AthleticRangersFC #UniqueInTheWorld 🦁 pic.twitter.com/BTq9GX5jEc
Celtic fans will love Athletic Bilbao's official post from win vs Rangers
The result means that the Rangers are out of the Europa League. To be fair, considering their performances in domestic competitions, they actually did quite well in Europa and even got past Jose Mourinho's Fenerbahce in the last 16 tie.
It also means that this is set to be another trophyless season for the Rangers. Of course, the league title race is not mathematically over yet. But realistically, they have no chance and Celtic need just one more point to seal the deal.
They will get the chance to do that next week, when they travel to Tannadice Park to take on Dundee United. But before that, they have a Scottish Cup semi-final to deal with, as they will take on St Johnstone. While the Rangers are set to finish trophyless, Celtic are still in contention for a treble and pretty much certain to at least win a double.