It was a sight to behold after Iannis Hagi’s free-kick deflected into the Portuguese visitor’s net to complete the 3-2 comeback. The hosts were back in front, fans valiantly roaring on once more. Celtic managed to hold off a formidable opponent in Copenhagen to a 1-1 draw and take the tie home. Europa League magic in its works.
Celtic and Rangers’ European nights
Both Scottish outfits managed to bag themselves a positive result in the Europa League knockout rounds opening night. Rangers completed a marvelous comeback from 2-0 down via Iannis Hagi’s brace and Joe Aribo’s stunning solo goal. Celtic were arguably the dominant side in Denmark with more shots on goal than the hosts- who were defensively sturdy.
These results from the Scots have made complimentary changes to UEFA’s nation table. Scotland was placed above the Czech Republic, now sitting 14th. Aidan Scott of the sun clarifies that if this was to stay this way for the rest of the campaign, the Scottish Premiership would maintain TWO Champions League qualifying spots next season.
So far, Steven Gerrard’s Rangers side is in blazing form in Europe this season. No defeats at Ibrox, and only one loss away from home. Florian Kamberi, a striker signed on loan from Hibernian, has been an overall success following his game-changing ability coming on. Iannis Hagi – son of Romanian icon Gheorge – has been making his own legacy at Rangers with a string of impressive performances.
Neil Lennon’s Celtic side has also been a formidable side in Europe this season. One loss that was taken into account by the Hoops served as a learning curve, as they progressed out of their group. S.S Lazio saw the best of Celtic both on their own turf and in Scotland as they lost both games. Fan-favorite Odsonne Edouard is hitting form yet again with 19 goals and 10 assists in 24 games this season. The towering Christopher Jullien is yet another Frenchman the fans adore due to his stand-out performances leading the backline.
Both Rangers and Celtic will be hoping to progress in the next leg of the knockout stages. Parkhead will be hoping to see a home win to put the tie to bed, whilst Rangers travel to Portugal to face Braga on their home turf- not going to be easy.
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