Martin O’Neill has revealed Celtic’s next steps ahead of Sunday’s trip to Ibrox following their 1-0 victory over Stuttgart in the Europa League last night…
Although the Scottish champions bowed out of the tournament, they recorded a historic milestone by claiming their first win in Germany, with Luke McCowan netting the decisive goal after 30 seconds.
No team have scored more goals in the opening minute of a European fixture than Celtic.
8.
Via @OptaJoe pic.twitter.com/UK6ce6OgC1
— Sacha Pisani (@Sachk0) February 26, 2026
In his post-match comments, the 73-year-old commended his squad for their discipline and resilience, highlighting how they successfully frustrated Sebastian Hoeness’ side throughout the encounter at MHP Arena.
O’Neill told TNT Sports: “Naturally, I am delighted. Delighted with the effort and the determination that they put into the game. They got off to a really great start.”
“We felt, if we don’t concede in the first 20 minutes of the match, and maybe even nick a goal, we could still be in the tie. We are playing a very, very good side. A side, from my viewpoint, who are capable of winning the competition.”
O’Neill added: “Naturally, it’s a different game (against Rangers). We don’t have that much time to get ourselves ready for it. But we will go again. We are staying overnight here, and we will travel back tomorrow. Then get ourselves ready for it, and that’s what we can do. That’s what we will do. The result is in the lap of the gods.”
When questioned about Scotland’s coefficient – which will see the champions next season start in the Champions League second qualifying round – O’Neill responded: “It’s not my main aim.”
“At least it’s keeping Scottish football, I suppose; in that sense, the coefficient keeps dropping down. I heard, within 18 months, the side that now finishes second will go into a play-off game for a match in the Conference League. That’s not fantastic news.”
Never a dull moment with Martin O’Neill 😅
The Celtic manager reflects on the side’s win in Germany on the evening, his future, and what comes on Sunday with a huge tie with Rangers 👀
🎙️ @missconniemac | 📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/6txGwLP49C
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 26, 2026
Only 2 defeats in last 10 away games . 🍀🍀🍀🍀 pic.twitter.com/ImIkuiTqxc
— frankie (@belfastbhoy1961) February 26, 2026
Another tremendous away end tonight.
Always enjoyable following the team across Europe.
No holdback after the game, but there was a 20 minute rendition of This is the Day.
Now onto more important matters on Sunday. Got to go and win and put a statement down in this title race. pic.twitter.com/kG3pvy3Rwg
— celtsmedia (@celtsmedia) February 26, 2026
Conor Spence
