Mohamed Elyounoussi hasn’t been at it this season, but tonight he’s shown exactly what he’s all about as he single-handedly provided Celtic with a reputational boost.
Celtic’s 2-2 draw in Lille tonight wasn’t quite a shot-in-the-arm given how the game went, but it was a much better result than many of us were expecting.
And even though Neil Lennon will be keen to stress that it was a team effort, as it was, there’s no denying who the star of the show was. Elyounoussi produced, by some distance, his most quality-filled performance of the season.
Yes, he had a chance to regain our two-goal advantage that he should’ve taken, but that can’t be held against him. Not after what he produced in the first 45.
His first goal of the evening was perhaps our goal-of-the-season. Collecting a superb Albian Ajeti back-heel, Moi darted forward a few yards before curling a superb long-range effort into the far corner. Lille’s goalkeeper was left stranded and was rooted to the spot.
But the Norwegian international wasn’t done there. He got himself into a great position to collect Jeremie Frimpong’s low cross to slot home a priceless second on 32 minutes.
Yet it wasn’t only Elyounoussi’s goal contribution which leads to the conclusion that this was his best display of the season. He was providing Celtic with an outlet whilst combining effectively with Diego Laxalt and Ajeti in particular.
In addition to that, the on-loan Southampton star was throwing himself into efforts on goal in the second half and giving Celtic breathers as he eased the pressure with his dribbling ability. Yes, the goals for Lille came in the end, but Elyounoussi more than played his part in keeping them out for long spells.
It was, in every sense, the complete performance. And it was something Elyounoussi desperately needed after a start to the season that has really flattered to deceive.
And, as you would expect, the supporters have fallen back in love with Moi after his stunning display in France tonight.
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