Portugal took on Croatia yesterday in their final warm up game before the Euros and it had extra significance for the Celtic supporters.

Memories of the past as Portugal played Croatia at a venue close to the hearts of the Celtic supporters.

The game was held at the Centro Desportivo Nacional do Jamer. The scene of the greatest ever achievement in the history of Celtic football club. The famous old stadium that witnessed the birth of the Lisbon lions as Billy McNeill lifted the big cup in 1967.

Those Celtic supporters who tuned into the game would have been more mesmerised by the surroundings than the actual action on the park.

It might have been over 50 years ago but the old stadium still looks very much the same as it did on that hot sunny day back in the 25th of May 1967.

The teams on the pitch and the supporters in the stands may have been differed from that historical day, but the watching Celtic supporters would have been reminiscing of that memorable iconic moment nevertheless.

Talent such as Luka Modric, Bernardo Silva and Ruban Diaz were on show, but the Celtic supporters would only have needed to shut their eyes and visualise the likes of Bobby Murdoch, Billy McNeill and Jimmy Johnstone strutting their stuff on the hallow turf.

A lovely stadia steeped in history is unfortunately in need of an upgrade and work will start soon to modernise the old ground. When completed we will sadly lose a bit of nostalgia in our home from home, our Portuguese Paradise.

Bertie Auld and Armando Picchi in Lisbon. Photo: imago/Kicker/Metelmann

That’s what makes games like yesterday all that more special as it gave the Celtic supporters one last chance to go back down memory lane. You can of course still visit to witness this nostalgic setting, but not for long in its original glory.

So if you haven’t been, I suggest you arrange a trip to take one last chance to sample a bit of history in person. You won’t be disappointed. It’s a magical experience for anyone with Celtic in their hearts.

Watch this…

This is remarkable: the stadium tonight where Celtic conquered Europe in 1967. Not a lot has changed, except note where the scaffolding seating is erected; back in ‘67 there was a small wooden stand, edged by trees, which gave no hint of the grandeur of the rest of the arena.🏆 https://t.co/6Q5dG5mx1s

— Graham Spiers (@GrahamSpiers) June 8, 2024

Just an Ordinary Bhoy