First-leg triumph

Celtic secured a 3-0 victory over LASK in the Champions League play-off first leg at Celtic Park. Benjamin Nygren opened the scoring with a sublime technique, followed by Camilo Duran’s top-drawer finish. Kasper Hogh provided a solid no. 9 display, while Mika Baur and young Colby Donovan impressed on the flanks. Viljami Sinisalo made crucial saves, and Cameron Carter-Vickers recovered after a shaky start.

O'Neill’s caution

Despite the comfortable lead, Martin O’Neill warned that the return leg in Austria could be a “feet-up job”. He cited LASK’s quality and the possibility of Celtic conceding a clean sheet. O’Neill recalled past experiences where a large first-leg advantage evaporated, mentioning Stuttgart, Be’er Sheva and Astana. He stressed that a 3-goal cushion “doesn’t guarantee safety” and that Celtic must remain alert.

Squad and transfer outlook

O’Neill highlighted the club’s financial balance: almost £30 million invested in the squad, offset by £35 million in sales and a reduced wage bill. He noted that further reinforcements are needed, especially in midfield where Arne Engels has been sold. Reo Hatate’s impact from the bench was praised, but the possibility of his departure remains. The club may need to bring in a replacement for Kieran Tierney at left-back, with Landon Emenalo potentially arriving on loan from Chelsea. Alistair Johnston’s prolonged absence also raises concerns.

O’Neill’s remarks suggest that Celtic will wait to see if they reach the Champions League group stage before deciding on the scale of their next transfer window. He emphasised that simply qualifying is insufficient; the team must compete at a higher level. The club’s ambition to make a European impact will require additional signings, particularly to strengthen a lightweight midfield and to support key players such as Tierney and Johnston.

Looking ahead

The 3-0 win is a positive step, but O’Neill’s caution underscores that the return leg will test the squad’s resilience. Celtic’s recent signings have shown they can change games, yet the club still has work to do both on and off the pitch. The next match in Austria will determine whether the team can maintain its advantage and secure a place in the Champions League group stage.