Celtic returns to Champions League knockout stages after 12 years

In February 2023, Celtic Football Club clinched their place in the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League for the first time since 2013. This marked a significant achievement for the Glasgow-based team, which had faced challenges in the tournament over the past decade. The team, guided by manager Brendan Rodgers, excelled in the group phase, overcoming early difficulties, including a heavy 7-1 defeat to Borussia Dortmund. Following this setback, Celtic regrouped and secured crucial home victories against RB Leipzig and Young Boys. Additionally, they managed to earn points on the road against Atalanta and Dinamo Zagreb, which ultimately solidified their position for advancement. Celtic's progression to the knockout rounds was made more impressive by their league standing, finishing 21st in the seeding. This classification meant that they are set to face formidable opponents in the upcoming play-off rounds. They will either play against Real Madrid, the 11th seed, or Bayern Munich, the 12th seed, ensuring that an exciting and challenging match lies ahead. The play-off draw took place on February 11/12 and 18/19, 2023, with Celtic scheduled to play the second leg away from home. Their achievements are even more notable considering their domestic performance, where they held a comfortable lead over their rivals, Rangers, in the Scottish Premiership title race and also secured the League Cup. With these developments, Celtic fans are filled with optimism as their team makes a return to knockout football at Parkhead, a venue where they have historically experienced memorable European nights. The excitement surrounding this achievement highlights how Celtic is regaining its status as a prominent force in European football.