Luis Palma has not had the best of times at Celtic over the last 18 months.
After enjoying a very successful start to his Parkhead career after he moved from Aris in the summer of 2023, Palma’s form at Celtic dropped like a stone.
Palma scored 10 goals and created 10 assists in an impressive first four months at Celtic but since December 2023, he has barely featured in the Hoops’ first-team.
After an unproductive spell on loan at Olympiacos this season, Palma is currently on Honduran international duty where the Celtic winger has just become a hero once again.
Watch Celtic winger Luis Palma secure Honduras’ Gold Cup qualification with stunning goal
Honduras entered their must-win Gold Cup game against Curacao after being beaten 6-0 by Canada and defeating El Salvador 2-0 three days ago.
The Hondurans went ahead in the first half just before Dick Advocaat’s side equalised just before half-time to an Endrick Menjivar own goal.
However, with the clock ticking down and Honduras’ qualification from Group A hanging in the balance, Palma stepped up to do this:
It was an exquisite finish by the Celtic forward and one that has set the national media alight.
Luis Palma labelled a ‘national hero’ after stunning Honduras winner vs Curacao
Palma has scored a few good goals over his time at Celtic, but it appears that this goal has delighted the Honduran national media today.
One Noticias: “In the 90th minute, Carlos Pineda threaded a perfect pass, and Luis Palma didn’t miss a trick: he controlled the ball with class and unleashed a powerful shot that left the opposing goalkeeper speechless. A stunning goal, and qualification was sealed.”
El Pais: “When it seemed that the tie would force the team to depend on the other result, Luis Palma , in the 90th minute , became the national hero with a powerful left-footed shot that sealed the victory and unleashed euphoria among the Hondurans in the stands.”
Radio HRN: “It was Luis Palma who was in charge of establishing the 2-1 for the Bicolor , when he received a lobbed ball in front of the area, faced it inside the area and finished with his left foot to score the second goal for Honduras.”
La Prensa: “Luis Palma regains confidence after his goal against Curaçao and could be a key player in this match against the Canaleros.”
Diez: “Luis Palma came off the bench and ended up becoming the hero of the night in San Jose, California, where Honduras defeated Curacao and secured their place in the Gold Cup quarterfinals.”
This will do Palma’s confidence a world of good as his Celtic return beckons. The Honduran will probably have one last chance to prove to Brendan Rodgers that he has a future at Parkhead and this goal will do wonders for his confidence.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
