Celtic FC Women head coach Elena Sadiku has been reflecting on the achievement of her team after they qualified for the group stage of the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
It’s the club’s first time making it this far in the tournament, and Celtic are the first Scottish side to land in the groups in this current format.
Victory over Ukrainian champions Vorskla Poltava on Thursday night has set up a blockbuster draw against English champions Chelsea, Spanish giants Real Madrid and Dutch champions FC Twente.
It’s a dream-like stuff for Sadiku, who has had a long journey in football. She had to retire early as a player due to knee injuries but has persevered to reach the top as a coach. Still just 30, her future is very bright.
Elena Sadiku pushes through ‘dark’ times to lead Celtic into a new era
She said this weekend [Herald Sport, 28/09 print edition]: “I have been in the dark. I have been through hell. But I have been a hard-working person my whole life.
“I am trying to enjoy it and take in the moment because what we have achieved is something incredible.
“Qualifying for the group stages is a huge moment for us and really puts Celtic on the map in women’s football. We’re excited to travel and compete at home against Chelsea, Real Madrid, and FC Twente.
“It will be a great challenge, but it’s one we will rise to and approach with confidence. Being among Europe’s top 16 teams highlights the progress and ambition of this club. I can’t wait to push on and create even more history.
“I don’t think that I can explain the excitement. We have achieved something that no one else has. If that doesn’t give them confidence, then I don’t know what will.
“We need to learn from this experience, but with this togetherness with this group, I am confident.”
Celtic FC Women set for Paradise return
Celtic announced on Friday after the draw was made that Sadiku’s outfit would be playing one of their European home fixtures at Celtic Park – hopefully helping draw a healthy crowd.
The women’s side have played at Paradise before, but representing the club in the Champions League in front of a hyped support could be a really special new experience.
It’s not yet clear which fixture will be selected for the big night, but when confirmation comes, mark it down in your calendars as one to pay attention to.
Sadiku is far from finished when it comes to breaking new ground at Celtic.
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