Celtic’s Champions League point against Brugge in midweek could go a long way to securing their path into the knockout phase if they can do enough over their remaining three matches.
The Bhoys showed spirit to recover from a Cameron Carter-Vickers own goal, with Daizen Maeda pulling his side back into the tie courtesy of a brilliant chop and finish on the hour mark.
Despite frustration that Celtic could only draw with Brugge, they now lie on eight points from five Champions League matches and will look forward to their final three clashes against Dinamo Zagreb, Young Boys and Aston Villa before the league phase ends.
Now, the task ahead today comes in the form of defeating Ross County to move five points clear in the Scottish Premiership. Building foundations for success is vital across all competitions the Bhoys are involved in, so there is plenty to play for at this stage of the season.
While Celtic turn their attention to other endeavours, Chris Sutton has delivered his final verdict on his old side’s draw with Brugge and what it could signify going forward.
Chris Sutton makes Celtic Champions League admission
Speaking on the Warm Up, Sutton believes Celtic achieved a noble result against Brugge and has admitted he is surprised with how well they have fared in the Champions League under Brendan Rodgers.
He stated: “I didn’t think Celtic were at their best, especially in the first half. I think in the second half, things improved.
“Overall, it was a good point for Celtic. You think now, eight points, Celtic are in a great position. I didn’t see the Champions League campaign going as well as it has done so far, they’ve still got an incredible opportunity with Zagreb to play.
Young Boys, everybody is looking at that game; they’ve lost every single game and been pummelled. I wouldn’t like to take it into the last game against Aston Villa. It’ll be a great game, but if Villa need to finish in the top eight, then the heat will be on.
“I think all things being equal, it was a good point for Celtic and maybe a year or two ago, a game that Celtic would’ve lost.”
Celtic take the point and move on in the Champions League
Sometimes, if you can’t win on the day, preventing a loss is the best course of action to maintain positive momentum.
Comparing the contrasting nature of Champions League and Scottish Premiership matches, it does feel like the former has a higher level of jeapordy attached to results.
To explain in a better context, there is always a huge effort needed by the team to secure results on the European scene because, as supporters seen on Wednesday night, one mistake can punish you heavily.
Coming back from that was a phenomenal show of strength for the Bhoys, who have a great opportunity to further their Champions League journey if they can secure one more league phase victory.
