Video: When Celtic Refused To Play Against Eastern European Opposition

The latest YouTube video to be added to The Celtic Star channel is somewhat topical as it tells of the club’s refusal to play against Eastern European opposition due to political issues.

The incident involved Moscow and was centred around the illegal invasion of Czechoslovakia, partly due to concerns involving a military alliance. However, it was Hungarian club Ferencvaros who were paired with Celtic in the European Cup at this time, prompting Celtic’s protest.

The chain reaction of events that followed had considerable impact.

“There are things for Celtic more important than money,” Bob Kelly said. It was yet another example of politics colliding with football.

Enjoy the full story in this narration, with over 25 images, in the video below:

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About Author

Hailing from an Irish background, I grew up on the English south coast with the good fortune to begin watching Celtic during the Martin O'Neill era. I have written four Celtic books since the age of 19: Our Stories & Our Songs: The Celtic Support, Take Me To Your Paradise: A History Of Celtic-Related Incidents & Events, Walfrid & The Bould Bhoys: Celtic's Founding Fathers, First Season & Early Stars, and The Holy Grounds of Glasgow Celtic: A Guide To Celtic Landmarks & Sites Of Interest. These were previously sold in Waterstones and official Celtic FC stores, and are now available on Amazon.

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