Struggling Celtic player superb in win vs Feyenoord
You never know what to expect from this Celtic side. Earlier on in the campaign, they had pulled off a 2-2 draw with Atletico Madrid. And in the final game of their UEFA Champions League campaign, with nothing riding on the result, the Hoops managed to end their long wait for a win in the competition, with a 2-1 victory over Feyenoord.
This is an excellent Feyenoord team and Brendan Rodgers' side deserve a lot of credit. They have come under a lot of criticism lately but on this night, they got the job done. Hopefully, they can use this result as a much-needed boost for the remainder of the domestic campaign.
Celtic had started the brighter of the two teams and Luis Palma put the Hoops ahead from the penalty spot. Just when it started to look like Rodgers' side were heading for a win, Feyenoord equalised in the 82nd minute.
Naturally, most fans thought the Hoops had missed their chance to get a win in the Champions League. They had seen this movie several times before, where Celtic came close but could not get the job done. Except this time, they did. Matt O'Riley showed his quality once again to put in a brilliant cross and Gustaf Lagerbielke just had to nod the ball into an open net to seal the historic win.
Struggling Celtic player superb in win vs Feyenoord
One player who has been heavily criticised in recent times is Joe Hart. But against Feyenoord, he was exceptional. He pulled off some very important saves to keep the Dutch side at bay and could not have done anything for the equaliser.
Overall, this was one of Hart's best performances in a Celtic shirt. And while a long-term number one is needed without a doubt, the Englishman deserves a lot of credit for how well he did when the spotlight was the brightest.
This is Celtic's first win in the Champions League since they defeated Anderlecht, back during Rodgers' first run as manager of the club. On the other hand, their last victory at Parkhead came back in 2013 against Ajax, more than a decade ago. It was certainly a long time coming.
It is certainly a weight lifted off of Celtic's shoulders. But at the same time, one cannot overlook the past several months and focus on this one result.
Celtic need to strengthen in the January transfer window, there are no two ways about it. If Rodgers gets the proper backing, we might get to celebrate many more Champions League wins in the future.