Celtic travelled to Germany to take on RB Leipzig on Wednesday evening where Ange Postecoglou’s side took the game to Leipzig and competed well in the first half but were eventually defeated 3-1. However the Celtic support showed their support for their team, even in defeat, which was picked up on by the German media.
Süddeutsche Zeitung noted how entertaining the clash between the Scottish Champions and the Bungesliga giants left the fans thoroughly entertained, and that each half was as entertaining as the other.
“The second half was no less entertaining than the first. The two teams continued to duel, fighting enthusiastically for every metre and moving forward.”
“Furuhashi crossed at the end to fellow Portuguese striker Jota, and the latter first loaded goalkeeper Blaswich and then stormed jubilantly to the corner flag. There he paused with a fist raised to the sky – in the style of the Black Panthers of the 60s.”
The German media outlet added that “Celtic Park is a place where guests traditionally suffer.”
This suggests a different conclusion to the match when Leipzig travels to Paradise and takes on the Hoops on their home turf.
They also made complimented the travelling Celtic support and made note of the impact they had on the game. They said…
“After a mistake in Leipzig’s build-up, Furuhashi appeared in the penalty area, crossed to Jota, who pushed the ball into the empty net. From then on, a party atmosphere prevailed in the visitors’ block, which was filled with 3000 fans. Leipzig did not deliver a quick mood killer.”
Leipzig’s German forward Timo Werner (R) and Celtic’s German defender Moritz Jenz vie for the ball during the UEFA Champions League Group F football match RB Leipzig v Celtic FC in Leipzig, eastern Germany on October 5, 2022. (Photo by Ronny HARTMANN / AFP) (Photo by RONNY HARTMANN/AFP via Getty Images)
Celtic will take on the German giants for a second time on Tuesday night on home soil. What is certain is that there will be around 58,000 Celtic fans providing the best possible support (world class even) for the Bhoys. Celtic have two home games in succession on the Champions League, knowing that two victories will go a long way to securing qualification.
The stakes are certainly high, but there are three points to be won in Perth tomorrow lunchtime first.