Celtic entered their Champions League clash with Club Brugge knowing a win would all but secure a play-off place in the league phase.
The atmosphere around Parkhead was electric, with fans buoyed by the Hoops’ impressive victory over RB Leipzig just two weeks prior.
However, the game itself proved a more frustrating affair. Celtic struggled to impose their signature high-pressing game, as Brugge confidently passed their way through Brendan Rodgers’ side.
The visitors took a first-half lead through a calamitous mix-up, with Cameron Carter-Vickers accidentally rolling the ball into his own net after losing sight of Kasper Schmeichel’s position.
Celtic rallied in the second half, with Daizen Maeda netting the equaliser, but they couldn’t find a winner. The 1-1 draw leaves Celtic needing to navigate their final match in Group A to confirm progression. Here are the player ratings from a hard-fought night at Parkhead.
Player Ratings
Kasper Schmeichel – 7
Had little to do in the first half but was caught out for the Brugge opener, albeit through no fault of his own. Made an excellent save early in the second half to keep Celtic in contention.
Alistair Johnston – 6
Struggled to build his usual partnership with Nicolas Kuhn. While he made some decent runs after the break, he lacked his usual influence.
Cameron Carter-Vickers – 6
Unlucky to concede an own goal as he lost track of Schmeichel’s position. Recovered well to deliver a solid performance defensively, particularly in the air.
Auston Trusty – 7
Composed in possession and strong in the tackle, Trusty continues to develop a promising partnership with Carter-Vickers.
Greg Taylor – 6
Tentative in the first half and caught out of position at times. Failed to support Maeda effectively on the overlap. Subbed off in the 63rd minute.
Arne Engels – 5
The young Belgian struggled to make an impact, leaving Callum McGregor exposed as Brugge’s press stifled his efforts. Replaced by Paulo Bernardo in the 63rd minute.
Callum McGregor – 7
Celtic’s captain led by example, showing energy and determination throughout. Worked tirelessly to motivate his teammates.
Reo Hatate – 6
A quiet performance from Hatate, who gave the ball away in a move that led to Brugge’s disallowed second goal. Failed to take control of the midfield.
Nicolas Kuhn – 6
Had moments of promise, including a driving run towards the end of the first half, but couldn’t impose himself on the game. Subbed in the 88th minute.
Daizen Maeda – 8
Celtic’s standout performer, combining relentless work rate with the all-important equaliser. Worked tirelessly in attack and defence before being subbed in the 76th minute.
Kyogo Furuhashi – 6
Starved of service in the first half and couldn’t test the Brugge goalkeeper. Worked hard off the ball but was substituted in the 76th minute.
Substitutes
Alex Valle – 7
Made an instant impact, providing the assist for Maeda’s equaliser. Showed pace and energy, giving Rodgers a potential selection headache going forward.
James Forrest – 6
Brought experience and endeavour off the bench, driving at the Brugge defence and trying to create openings.
Adam Idah – 6
Replaced Kyogo and offered physicality up front. Although he didn’t have a scoring chance, his presence added variety to Celtic’s attack.
Paulo Bernardo – 7
A strong cameo, bringing dynamism and goal threat to Celtic’s midfield after replacing Engels.
Hyunjun Yang – 5
Introduced late and had little time to influence the game.
Celtic’s inability to find a second goal cost them the chance to seal progression on the night.
While Maeda’s equaliser salvaged a point, the performance lacked the fluidity and urgency that characterised their win over Leipzig. Brugge, by contrast, showed composure and resilience, ensuring a share of the spoils.
For Brendan Rodgers, there were positives to take, including Schmeichel’s leadership and Valle’s impact off the bench.
However, Celtic will need to be sharper and more clinical in their final group match if they are to secure a play-off spot. The pressure is on, but this draw keeps their Champions League hopes alive.
