Now that we know Celtic’s opponents for the upcoming UEFA Champions League group stage, it’s time to keep up with the goings on at all three clubs, their results and developing situations.
Playing first this weekend were the Pot 3 side Lazio, who faced a very tough trip away to last season’s runaway champions Napoli. It was especially daunting for the Rome side considering they’ve had a poor start to Serie A campaign, losing their first two fixtures against Lecce and Genoa.
That losing streak looked like it could stretch to three matches in the early stages of tonight’s match, Napoli started strong and forced goalkeeper Ivan Provedel into some smart stops.
However, midfielder Luis Alberto opened the scoring against the run of play after half an hour, before Napoli dramatically equalised just minutes later through Piotr Zielinski.
Heading into half-time, the home side looked on top and capable of going on to win the match. Lazio had different plans, producing a superb second-half display that delivered a statement 2-1 win on the road.
New signing Daichi Kamada was the hero, scoring his first goal since joining the Italians and ensuring Maurizio Sarri’s outfit didn’t continue their horror start to the season.
MORE CELTIC STORIES
The margin of victory could have been greater, too. Two very well-taken goals were ruled out via VAR due to offside infringements. Their attacking danger, especially on the counter, was clear to see against an elite Napoli side.
Lazio will be Celtic’s first visitors in the Champions League on October 4th, with the Bhoys visiting Feyenoord on the opening matchday later this month. It’s going to be far from easy.
The Dutch side play away to Utrecht in Eredivisie action tomorrow afternoon, with Atletico Madrid hosting Sevilla on Sunday evening.
In other news, Brendan Rodgers addresses Celtic’s summer spend and lack of big money players.