UCL: A great European night for Celtic

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Celtic 5 - 1 Slovan Bratislava

Celtic delivered a commanding performance at a lively Celtic Park to secure their first-ever opening Champions League victory in emphatic fashion, overpowering Slovan Bratislava.

In a rare instance where they started as favourites in Europe's top competition, Brendan Rodgers' team produced an energetic and composed display.

UCL: A great European night for Celtic - 1

Liam Scales sent the home crowd into raptures in the 17th minute, heading in Arne Engels' corner. Despite creating several chances before half-time, the Scottish champions couldn’t extend their lead.

Kyogo Furuhashi eased any nerves just two minutes into the second half, steering Nicolas Kuhn’s powerful cross into the net, putting fears of missed opportunities to rest.

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Celtic continued to create chances, and after Alistair Johnston was fouled by Danylo Ihnatenko, the impressive Engels calmly slotted home from the penalty spot for a third.

Although Kevin Wimmer's exquisite outside-of-the-foot finish briefly dampened the celebratory mood as Slovan responded, Celtic quickly regained control. Reo Hatate set up Daizen Maeda to restore the three-goal lead, before James Forrest found fellow substitute Adam Idah, who capped off a morale-boosting and much-needed Champions League win.

Another amazing European night at Paradise

Check out this picture from GMCR Football.

Celtic v Slovan

Celtic players shine but bigger tests will come

Celtic’s record signing, Engels, played a pivotal role, driving the team forward with purposeful and fast-paced passing, while relentlessly pressing their opponents whenever possession was lost.

Engels, along with Kyogo and Maeda, could easily have bagged hat-tricks, given Celtic’s dominance. They constantly carved through Bratislava’s fragile defence with slick play through the midfield and down the flanks.

With upcoming away fixtures against Borussia Dortmund and Atalanta, as well as a home clash with RB Leipzig, the challenges ahead are set to become even tougher.

Watch the highlights in the video below

The footage is from the Celtic YouTube account. What did you think of their performance.

Click for some of the latest Champions League news and stories from across Europe.

Location: Glasgow, UK

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