Celtic surrendered a four-goal lead to lose in extra time against LASK, dropping into the Europa League for the new season. Callum McGregor put his team 4-0 up on aggregate against LASK when he struck from 18 yards in the 21st minute in Austria, but the Scottish champions lost 5-1 on the night after extra time to surrender the tie. The defeat delivers a damaging financial blow that will cost the club at least £20m.
Why did Celtic lose the lead against LASK?
Celtic looked passive throughout the return leg in Austria, with McGregor admitting the players were scared to go and win the game. The Austrian side fought back to level the tie and force extra time, where they scored the decisive goals. McGregor said after the match that the team got what they deserved for a lacklustre performance.
What does this mean for Celtic's season?
The defeat sends Celtic into the Europa League rather than the Champions League, a step down in both prestige and revenue. The financial impact is significant, with the club facing a cost of at least £20m compared to what Champions League participation would have brought. The result also raises questions about the squad's mentality in high-pressure ties.
How have Hearts reacted to European success?
While Celtic suffered heartbreak, Hearts qualified for the Conference League main phase after a dramatic penalty shoot-out victory over Rapid Vienna. The Edinburgh side overcame a red card for midfielder Tomas Magnusson to defeat the Austrian side 4-3 on penalties after the tie finished 4-4 on aggregate. Goalkeeper Beau Reus made two crucial saves in the shoot-out to send Hearts into the group stage for the third time in five seasons.
What is Celtic's domestic form this season?
Celtic sit top of the Premiership table after two games, with six points from two wins and no losses. The team has scored six goals and conceded only one, giving a goal difference of plus five. Their next fixture is at home to Falkirk on 29 August 2026, with the Bhoys looking to maintain their perfect start to the campaign.
What did Callum McGregor say about the collapse?
Celtic captain Callum McGregor accepted there were no excuses for the players after their Champions League play-off collapse. He said: "We got what we deserved. I thought we were so passive. All night." McGregor also reflected on the first leg, admitting he didn't think his team were that good, but said going 3-0 up should have given them a real chance that they ultimately wasted.
