Should Celtic’s European adventure end in Spain on Thursday night, it will be the end of a journey which began in July.
The fact that the Hoops are still in seven months later should be considered a success. And there is no shame in losing to a La Liga side, if the Hoops exit Europe.
It was always going to be tough for the Hoops in Europe this season, when you consider that they had to play four qualifying rounds to reach the Champions League group stages.
Champions League a bridge too far
Sadly the Hoops faltered at the final hurdle, losing 3-2 on aggregate to AEK Athens. The game probably came too quickly for a Celtic side dealing with a mountain of injuries.
That was naturally a huge disappointment. But the Hoops did manage to bounce back by qualifying from a tough Europa League group stage.
Bounced back in Europa League
A 2-1 win over RB Leipzig showcased possibly the Hoops’ best performance of the season so far. Whilst the rare 1-0 away win over Rosenborg was also most welcome.
Celtic’s standing in Europe these days is probably that of a last 32 Europa League side. Fans might not like to hear that, but it is true.
Therefore, it won’t be a shock should the European adventure end on Thursday night. It has provided both great victories and huge disappointments, but in no way have the Hoops embarrassed themselves.
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