Celtic took a commanding step towards the Champions League group stage with a 3-0 first-leg victory over LASK at Celtic Park on Tuesday night. The performance was dissected by The Herald, which provided individual player ratings for the crucial European qualifier.
Summer signing Camilo Duran was the standout, netting a first-half brace. His opening goal was a thunderous volley that sent the home crowd into a frenzy, and he later added a second from distance. Benjamin Nygren continued his excellent form, hammering in the third goal and also setting up one of Duran's strikes for his fourth goal involvement in as many matches.
How did the new signings perform?
Several players making their European debuts for Celtic impressed. Record signing Kasper Hogh led the line effectively, using his physicality to hold up play and win fouls despite limited service. Defender Auston Trusty, preferred to Liam Scales, delivered a towering performance at centre-back, dominating in the air against the Austrian champions. Midfielder Mika Baur, making his first start since joining the club, grew into the game after a nervy opening and displayed promising passing range before being substituted.
Who were the other key performers?
Captain Callum McGregor steadied the midfield after a difficult start, dictating the tempo as the game progressed. Goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo made a crucial save in the second half to preserve the clean sheet, having been largely untested earlier. Full-back Colby Donovan, deputising for the injured Alistair Johnston, put in a courageous shift before being replaced late on. The team's current form is reflected in the standings as they push on multiple fronts.
What does this mean for the squad depth?
The match highlighted the options available to manager Brendan Rodgers. Substitutes like Reo Hatate and Sebastian Tounekti provided fresh legs, while Anthony Ralston and Liam Scales offered defensive stability late on. This depth will be tested across a busy schedule, with fans able to track upcoming commitments on the fixtures page. The performance of players like Nygren, who is in a rich vein of form, adds significant firepower to the attacking unit detailed on the squad page.
What is the state of the defence?
The centre-back partnership of Cameron Carter-Vickers and Auston Trusty recovered from a shaky opening to form a solid base. Carter-Vickers, after being at fault for two early LASK chances, improved alongside his fellow American. Kieran Tierney provided his usual energy at left-back before being substituted, and the defensive unit ultimately recorded a valuable clean sheet. This solidity at the back provides a strong platform for the second leg in Austria.
Celtic now carries a significant advantage into the return fixture next week. The comprehensive victory, built on goals from key attackers and a resolute defensive display, puts the Scottish champions in a strong position to reach the group stage. The team will look to maintain this momentum as they continue their season.
