Match Pictures | Matches: 2024 – 2025
Trivia
- KO: 20:00 UK time Wednesday; TNT Sports TV (took over BT sports)
- Champions League, Group Match 1
- First group match being played by Celtic in this whole new format of the competition (inaugural year for this new format). Celtic automatically through to group stages this time.
- Celtic’s biggest Champions league Group stage victory to date, Celtic sit 2nd currently in the overall group table. Goals from fiver separate players, two from Irish Internationals in same game!
- Debut for Auston Trusty.
- A night of firsts for Celtic in the Champions League. •First time they won on Matchday 1 • First time they scored five goals • First time they won by 4 clear goals.
- MOTM Liam Scales won 11 duels tonight vs Slovan Bratislava – the most of any player in a Champions League game so far this matchday. It’s the most recorded by a Celtic player in the competition since Mikael Lustig vs Anderlecht in September 2017 (13).
- Arne Engels is only the second Celtic player to score and assist a goal in the same Champions League game, the other is Henrik Larsson.
- Slovan Bratislava are from Slovakia. Ex Celtic manager Jo Venglos once played for and coached them previously.
- The Slovan Bratislava manager was also at one time the Artmedia Bratislava manager. Specifically, when they beat Celtic 5-0 in the CL qualifiers in 2005. His son, ex Rangers loanee player Vladimir Weiss, is their captain. Bratislava did NOT lose a single away game in their four rounds, demonstrating the quality of Celtic’s result.
- Celtic’s squad 20x higher valued than these opponents, and on paper Celtic could NOT have picked a better side to play against in the opener.
- Ex-Sevco player Vladimir Weiss just two weeks after this match, made the sudden decision to retire from football (they got batterred two weeks later 4-0 v Man City too).
- Baryern Munich steal the headlines with a 9-2 win v Dynamo Zagreb. Young Boys lose 3-0 to Aston Villa.
- UEFA Youth League: Celtic youth team win 4-0 v Slovan Bratislava counterparts.
- Celtic FC Financial results for year ended June 30 2024: Revenue: £124.6m Profit (before tax): £17.8m Cash: £77.2m. The highest revenue in the history of Scottish Football, highest squad value in Celtic’s history.
- Ex-Celt Tomoki Iwata scored on his first start for Birmingham City as ex-Man Utd David Beckham and American football legend Tom Brady watched on.
- Dodgy Ex-Ibrox boss Dave King offered to make a return to Sevco as chairman. Unsurprisingly, the “Glib & Shameless liar” has been rebuffed.
- Media: Baby Reindeer, the hugely popular but highly contentious British TV hit by Scottish comedian Richard Gadd, took the Emmy Awards by storm, winning four trophies at the ceremony in Los Angeles.
- Shipbuilding company Harland and Wolff confirmed the business is to be placed into administration for the second time in five years.
- Ex-Celtic Gordon Marshall expressed his delight at returning to St Johnstone as first-team goalkeeping coach. The 60-year-old was most recently working with Hamilton and has a wealth of experience in Scottish football including a previous spell at Saints under former boss Derek McInnes.
- A Celtic fan has tragically died in a horror crash after ‘boarding the wrong bus’ following last Saturday’s match against Hearts. Reported that John Burns passed away after being hit by a vehicle on the M6 near Carlisle on Saturday, September 14. Some held minutes applause for him at the 23rd min mark for this match. RIP
- Glasgow confirmed as host of 2026 Commonwealth Games. Celtic Park hosted the opening last time, and meant some games played at Murrayfield.
- St Johnstone they have sacked manager Craig Levein. Scott Brown, who is now managing Ayr United, and Hoops assistant coach John Kennedy are among the contenders for the job.
- Shipbuilding company Harland and Wolff confirmed the business is to be placed into administration for second time in five years.
- Italian icon Salvatore Schillaci, the top scorer at the 1990 World Cup and broke the hearts of the Irish national side football side, died aged 59. A real cult hero. RIP
Summary
“We’re doing the Huddle in the Champions League”
Celtic chant during the night
“This feels like the most ready I’ve been as a Celtic manager.”
Brendan Rodgers pre-match
“The players deserve to be here. We have not come here as tourists,”
SB manager Vladimir Weiss Snr prematch
“We’re getting better and better every day!”
“I’m always cool’
Arne Engels
‘We don’t have to do anything special. Just be us.’
Brendan Rodgers
“Yeah the competition stops now – we play Bayern Munich in the final!”
Brendan Rodgers post-match jokey mood
Peter Schmeichel (father of Kasper) at the Man City game: “This was a terrible game and the atmosphere was non-existent. Celtic game looked amazing. The next round you’re gonna send me to Dortmund and I’ll be in the green end! “
“He could easily have dropped that press, he didn’t have to do that one, he went, realised it wasn’t getting there and he actually got to the CH before the guy who should have got there. It was incredible & unbelievable pressing.”
Brendan Rodgers on Maeda after 5-1 v Slovan Bratislava (Sep 2024)
“There are few places as Atmospheric as Celtic Park on a Champions League night. Just listen to that roar as the Champions League anthem finishes, the roar is utterly deafening, you can’t hear yourself think! What an atmosphere!”
Christian Machowski @CM_MalagaFoto .
fatboab of KDS:
Celtic go in to a CL game as heavy favourites and actually live up to the billing.
A thoroughly professional performance from a team that looks a whole lot better than last season. First half was cautious , we made the breakthrough at a very good time and should have had the game won by half time. Kyogo and to a lesser extent Maeda should have made much more of the chances that fell to them, but at least we got to the break without conceding. Their only real chance fell to that despicable ex-Hun player Weiss, who should have burst the net but decided to showboat and lost the chance.
Second half was different gravy. We destroyed them, especially down our right side where Johnston and Kuhn were rampant, and we finally got the goals we deserved. Brilliant work by Kuhn for the second goal ( not even Kyogo could miss that one ) , and Johnston won the penalty that gave us the breathing space.
A clumsy clearance by Taylor allowed them a goal ( lovely finish btw) that last season would have catastrophic, but this team is different, and we got our just deserts with two great goals to seal a fabulous win. Double figures would not have flattered us on the night.
Great crowd, brilliant atmosphere on a ‘ taps aff’ September evening.
We will face much stiffer opposition than the abject Bratislava in the years CL, but let’s not pretend that a 5-1 win in this competition is not a result for the ages. Magnificent Celtic.
@agentscotland: Sensational performance from Celtic, 5 going on 10, if Kyogo and Maeda had their shooting boots on they would’ve knocked Bayern off top spot. Hatate and Engels were superb from the first whistle, set the tone, tougher nights lie ahead, but this will give them massive confidence.
Etims: Just in from game. That was electric. Aye, we were faves to win but that was outstanding. Controlled 1st half & should have been more than 1 up. Pressed booster button at HT & ran over the top of them 2nd half with some brilliant fitba. Big bravo to Brendan & team A full time rave! No party like a Celtic party 5 goals scored and some how one of my favourite bits was Kaspar going absolute tonto at the goal being conceded
Teams
Celtic:
Manager: Brendan Rodgers
Formation: 4 – 3 – 3
01 K. Schmeichel
03 G. Taylor
05 L. Scales
20 C. Carter-Vickers 80′, Yellow Card at 80 minutes, substituted for A. Trusty at 85 minutes
02 A. Johnston 22′, Yellow Card at 22 minutes, substituted for A. Ralston at 77 minutes
41 R. Hatate, substituted for Paulo Bernardo at 77 minutes
42 C. McGregor (c), Captain
27 A. Engels
38 D. Maeda
08 K. Furuhashi, substituted for A. Idah at 77 minutes
10 N. Kühn, substituted for J. Forrest at 71 minutes
Subs:
49 J. Forrest
28 Paulo Bernardo
09 A. Idah
14 L. McCowan
17 M. Nawrocki
07 L. Palma
56 A. Ralston
12 V. Sinisalo
06 A. Trusty
11 Alex Valle
57 S. Welsh
13 Yang Hyun-Jun
Goals: L. Scales (17′), K. Furuhashi (47′), A. Engels (56′ pen), D. Maeda (70′), A. Idah (86′)
Assists: A. Engels (17′), N. Kuhn (47′), R. Hatate (70′), J. Forrest (86′)
Slovan Bratislava
71 D. Takac
06 K. Wimmer 22′, Yellow Card at 22 minutes
12 K. Bajric
04 G. Kashia
28 C. Blackman
77 D. Ihnatenko, substituted for K. Savvidis at 76 minutes
33 J. Kucka, substituted for A. Gajdos at 85 minutes
07 V. Weiss (c), Captain18′, Yellow Card at 18 minutes, substituted for R. Mak at 77 minutes
10 M. Tolic 26′, Yellow Card at 26 minutes
11 T. Barseghyan, substituted for N. Marcelli at 77 minutes
13 D. Strelec, substituted for I. Metsoko at 85 minutes
Subs:
26 A. Gajdos
35 A. Hrdina
21 R. Mak
18 N. Marcelli
17 J. Medvedev
93 I. Metsoko
88 K. Savvidis
37 J. Szöke
31 M. Trnovský
02 S. Voet
27 M. Vojtko
23 S. Zuberu
Goals: K. Wimmer (60′)
Assists: M. Tolic (60′)
Referee: Danny Makkelie
Video Assistant Referee: Rob Dieperink
Assistant Referee 1: Hessel Steegstra
Assistant Referee 2@ Jan de Vries
Fourth Official: Marc Nagtegaal
Assistant VAR Official: Carlos del Cerro Grande
Att: 58,000
Venue: Celtic Park
Articles
- Match Report (see below)
Pictures
Match Links
Stats
Overall Possession
Celtic 60.7% Slovan Bratislava 39.3%
Shots
Celtic 16 Slovan Bratislava 8
Shots on target
Celtic 11 Slovan Bratislava 2
Shots off target
Celtic 3 Slovan Bratislava 2
Blocked shots
Celtic 2 Slovan Bratislava 4
Total touches in the box
Celtic 36 Slovan Bratislava 16
Articles
Celtic Park in ferment – how Brendan Rodgers delivered on Champions League promise as ex-Rangers man tormented
https://www.scotsman.com/sport/football/celtic/latest-celtic-news/celtic-park-in-ferment-how-brendan-rodgers-delivered-on-champions-league-promise-as-ex-rangers-man-tormented-4788154
By Alan Pattullo
Specialist Sports Writer
Published 18th Sep 2024, 22:22 BST
Updated 18th Sep 2024, 22:54 BST
Celtic romp to victory in Champions League opener
Celtic did not let their manager down. They were as they had been billed. They were primed. They were on point. The gladiators were ready.
A first-ever opening match win at this stage of the competition meant the handsome victory felt more significant than just three points, although they are gratefully received. It seemed as vital for what it represented. Celtic now know how it feels to hit the ground running at this stage of the competition.
Inspired by record signing Arne Engels, they blew the visitors away. It underlines the dominance they enjoyed here to note that even a margin of four goals, Celtic’s biggest ever victory at this stage, felt a little flattering for the outclassed opposition.
Slovan Bratislava had posted a reminder that there was another team in the equation when Austrian full back Kevin Winner rifled in for 3-1 just after the hour mark.
But Daizen Maeda quickly responded, turning the ball into the net after Reo Hatate had played it into his path with 20 minutes left.
A few lighters were still flickering from the tribute to the 1967 European Cup winners in the 67th minute but this was an evening when the synergy between fans and players was notable from the first minute to the last, and indeed continued for some time after Dutch referee Danny Makkelie’s final whistle. The supporters made sure they stayed on for this and roared their appreciation, with manager Brendan Rodgers seeming to particularly enjoy this lap of honour. He has delivered on another promise.
The new format seems to appeal to a team boasting such a rich heritage in the tournament and yet who never quite got to grips with the previous configuration.
A Liam Scales header from Engels’ corner got Celtic underway after just 17 minutes. They were relentless before as well as afterwards, with Kyogo Furuhashi doubling the home team’s lead just after half time following brilliant work from the right by Nicolas Kuhn.
Engels, the £11 million man, continues to shrug his shoulders at the idea that he might be performing under a degree of extra pressure and added a third from the spot ten minutes after half time, after Alistair Johnston was clipped.
Celtic Park was in ferment. Finally, it seems, they might have a team for built for such occasions.
Rodgers had certainly expressed his belief that the time had come when they might just have the resources required. Celtic have experienced many traumas at this level, under Rodgers as well as others. Results such as 1-5 and 1-7 against Paris Saint-Germain and 0-7 v Barcelona spring to mind.
This time it was another lot on the receiving end and it must have felt good.
A new format, an old flame. The Green Brigade hoisted up a tifo that spelled out their club’s relationship with the competition. “Last night as I lay dreaming,” the first line from an old Irish ballad, was stitched into a large banner alongside the cup itself, perched on a bedside table. Also included was the date of all dates: 25 May 1967.
That was then, this is now. It’s all about flashing lights and booming anthems now. Still, given all the so-called improvements to the competition, there was something rather quaint and old school about the champions of one country playing the champions of another country. Champions are champions wherever they come from, warned Rodgers pre-match.
He also knew that playing a Slovakian side first gave Celtic an opportunity to make an early mark in the competition. The hosts started like a team possessed. It felt impossible they would do anything other than secure three points.
There were some brief moments of anxiety. Slovan Bratislava could not be discounted in the same way that teams such as Hearts cannot be completely discounted when playing Celtic. The visitors had their moments but they were fleeting. They also had a pantomime villain in Vladimir Weiss, the former Rangers winger and son of the manager, also Vladimir.
Vladimir Snr might have been better off replacing Vladimir junior. It was clear he was allowing the emotion of the night get the better of him. He was booked for felling Engels shortly after Celtic had edged ahead through Scales’ powerful header, that went into the net off ‘keeper Dominik Takac’s shoulder.
Weiss’s every touch was being jeered and he was even falling out with his own teammates. But there was also the suspicion that he might yet have a say on the evening. It was probably why his father was persisting with him. He was going to either score or be sent off, perhaps both. He very nearly did get a goal on the half hour mark when he found – or was inadvertently given – space in the box he wasted the opportunity when transferring the ball onto his right foot and was quickly closed down. A first-time effort might have been more profitable. Celtic Park erupted when he was eventually replaced after 75 minutes.
This was football in the raw. No time to settle, no time to think. The pace got to Kyogo at one point after a sweeping move down the left. Hatate centred but his compatriot hooked over. Kyogo might have had a hat-trick here and probably should have done. Takac saved well with his legs after Nicolas Kuhn had played the Japanese striker in.
Maeda hit a header straight at Takas when it seemed easier to score following a cross from Kuhn. He later made up for it.
Every Celtic player seemed to be intent on atoning for some previously bleak nights in this competition, even if those who were not party to these failures.
Champions League debutant Adam Idah came on and promptly slipped a shot beyond Takac to make it 5-1 after fellow sub and slightly more experienced campaigner James Forrest had released the striker with a threaded pass.
Joe Hart gushes over ‘incredible’ Celtic and reveals initial Brendan Rodgers reservations
https://www.scotsman.com/sport/football/celtic/latest-celtic-news/joe-hart-gushes-over-incredible-celtic-and-reveals-initial-brendan-rodgers-reservations-4788179?cx_testId=5&cx_testVariant=cx_undefined&cx_artPos=3&cx_experienceId=EX2NAIW0WFIR&cx_experienceActionId=showRecommendationsK080OZDSLLXE8#cxrecs_s
By Matthew Elder
Deputy Sports Editor
Published 19th Sep 2024, 08:00 BST
Updated 19th Sep 2024, 08:22 BST
Former goalkeeper delighted with performance and result from old team
Happiness was written across the face of Joe Hart as he described an “incredible” Celtic performance in the 5-1 victory over Slovan Bratislava in their Champions League opener.
The former Celtic goalkeeper, who retired in the summer after three silverware-laden seasons with the club, was on pundit duties for the BBC, who have secured rights to broadcast match highlights on a special new Champions League edition of Match of the Day.
Asked for his views on the efforts of his former team-mates, Hart beamed: “An incredible performance – and let me tell you that place is special on Champions League nights. For Celtic to start how they did, for the performance, that passion and energy from the crowd, from the players, from Brendan Rodgers, it was an incredible game to watch.
“They would have earmarked this game. They would have seen Slovan Bratislava as a great opportunity, but Celtic haven’t necessarily taken those opportunities in recent times, even when I’ve been there.
“From the moment the game started, on the front foot. Nicolas Kuhn, energy, putting pressure on. Daizen Maeda setting the tone. Slovan Bratislava must have thought, ‘what has hit us?’.
“I love the fact that they played so well and I’m absolutely buzzing for them.”
Hart worked with Brendan Rodgers during his final season at Celtic after two campaigns spent under the tutelage of Ange Postecoglou. The former England goalkeeper admitted it took time for Rodgers to put his own stamp on the side, with Hart admitting he held some reservations about whether the transformation would take place under the Northern Irishman.
“Brendan came in, there were a few murmurs, it was his second tenure at the club,” Hart explained. “Ange Posteocglou had really laid his stamp. We’ve seen now down in England with Tottenham what a feeling he has with the fans, and that wasn’t lost on the Celtic faithful. We played some incredible football under him.
“Brendan came in and it was a tough role to take over. But do you know what I love about him? He just took his time. He understood that we’d been well drilled under the Ange Postecoglou regime, we had ways of playing and people had certain triggers which he couldn’t just erase. You can’t just erase them.
“So he slowly worked his way, and I personally wasn’t quite sure. Is he going to put his stamp on this? And then, four, three months to go, Brendan stepped up, let everyone know what it meant to be a Celtic player, and all of a sudden we started. Just the little tweaks and minor changes of what had already complemented what a great job Ange had done, and put his spin on it. And we really felt it as players.
“I think pre-season going so well, then next thing you know the season starts incredibly well, a favourable draw in the Champions League, and after a night like this it’s just going to get better.”
BBC
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/live/c20pryqy0lrt?page=5#Report
Thomas Duncan
BBC Sport Scotland
Rampant Celtic overpowered Slovan Bratislava at a jubilant Celtic Park to win their opening Champions League game for the first time ever in impressive style.
On a rare occasion when they began a game in Europe’s premier competition as favourites, Brendan Rodgers’ side delivered an invigorating performance full of energy and poise.
Liam Scales headed in Arne Engels’ corner to send the crowd wild on 17 minutes, and the Scottish champions created a flurry of other opportunities before the break but failed to embellish their score.
However, Kyogo Furuhashi diverted Nicolas Kuhn’s fierce cross into the net barely two minutes into the second half, banishing any lingering nerves Celtic fans may have had about profligacy returning to bite them.
Further opportunities came and went before the outstanding Engels slotted in a third from the penalty spot after Alistair Johnston was caught by Danylo Ihnatenko.
Kevin Wimmer’s brilliant finish with the outside of his left foot briefly punctured the party atmosphere as Slovan hit back, but normal service quickly resumed.
Reo Hatate teed up Daizen Maeda to re-establish Celtic’s three-goal cushion, before James Forrest slipped through fellow substitute Adam Idah to round off a morale-boosting and much-needed victory.
Rodgers hails Celtic’s ‘greed, hunger and mentality’
Published
7 hours ago
‘Class act’ Engels proves Celtic value on big stage
Published
7 hours ago
Share your views on Celtic’s performance
Slick Celtic rise to pressure as favourites
The Celtic story in the Champions League in the last decade has been wearily familiar, with the storied Glasgow fortress of old fading into distant memory, replaced with tales of defensive woe and a stack of painful losses.
Rodgers part in that – despite continued domestic dominance – has also come under scrutiny, with the Northern Irishman managing just two wins as Celtic boss in 18 games in the Champions League prior to this one.
Here they were presented with a huge opportunity to win their opening game at the 13th attempt, against a Slovan side with less means and making their first appearance at this level.
Rodgers himself said this was the best he had ever felt coming into a European campaign after a strong summer window and start to the domestic season.
Media caption,
Liam Scales’ goal puts Celtic ahead
There was pressure, then, to make a mark and they duly did with a slick performance which provided too much for the Slovakian champions.
Record signing Engels was hugely influential as Celtic passed with purpose and speed, as well as hounding their visitors every time they lost the ball.
Engels, Kyogo, and Maeda all could have netted hat-tricks such was Celtic’s dominance as they repeatedly worked the ball neatly through midfield and down the sides of the porous Bratislava backline.
With trips to Borussia Dortmund and Atalanta, plus a home game against RB Leipzig to come, the tests will only get sterner from now.
However, this performance here re-ignited the European fire at Celtic Park and sets them up well to make a fist of reaching the play-off round in this revamped format, where a place in the top 24 keeps the campaign going.
Slovan in for tough campaign
Making their Champions League bow, this was a tough lesson for Slovan.
Vladimir Weiss’ side had done to them what superior sides have done to Celtic over the years, as they struggled to cope with the intensity of their opponents with and without the ball.
They did have their moments, chiefly when former Tottenham midfielder Wimmer profited from Greg Taylor’s skewed clearance to calmly find the top corner of Kasper Schmeichel’s goal.
Vladimir Weiss, the pantomime villain of the night as a former Rangers forward, also had a great chance to level in the first half but – typically of Slovan in this game – he took too long to shoot and ended up having his effort blocked.
Overall, though, they looked well short of this level and will face a struggle to pick up points.
Media caption,
Joe Hart discusses Celtic’s 5-1 victory
Match stats
Celtic have won their first match of a Champions League campaign for the first time at the 13th attempt.
Slovan were the ninth side to concede more than five goals in their first Champions League game, after Feyenoord, Maccabi Haifa, Levski Sofia, Zurich, Sporting Braga, Rostov, Qarabag, and Royal Antwerp.
Celtic scored five goals in a single European Cup or Champions League match for the first time since September 1977 against Jeunesse Esch (6-1).
It’s the first time they have had five different scorers in this competition since September 1973 against TPS Turku.
Having only won two of his first 23 Champions League matches (D6 L15), Rodgers has won both his last two.
Engels was only the second player to both score and assist a goal on his Champions League debut for Celtic, after Henrik Larsson against Juventus in September 2001.
Kasper Schmeichel was the first player aged 37 or above to appear for Celtic in the Champions League.
Rodgers hails Celtic’s ‘greed, hunger and mentality’
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/c8rdjxngkr2o
Highlights: Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
Richard Winton
BBC Sport Scotland
Published
7 hours ago
Brendan Rodgers hailed the “greed, hunger and mentality” of his Celtic players as they began their Champions League campaign with an impressive 5-1 dismantling of Slovakian side Slovan Bratislava.
Liam Scales’ first-half header set the Scottish champions on their way to a first opening-night win in the competition, before Kyogo Furuhashi, Arne Engels, Daizen Maeda and Adam Idah netted after the break to seal victory.
The last time Celtic had five different scorers in a European Cup or Champions League match was 51 years ago against TPS Turku.
“We were strong in the first half, but second half, wow,” Rodgers said. “The greed of the players, the hunger, the mentality of the team, I am just so proud.
Rampant Celtic start Champions League with five-goal win over Slovan
‘Class act’ Engels proves Celtic value on big stage
Published
7 hours ago
Visit our Celtic page for all the latest news, analysis and fan views
“We played well in the first half, got the early goal, had other more opportunities to be more clinical, but I just felt we were taking one touch too many.
“We reiterated we don’t need to do anything special, we just have to be us. Just don’t overthink it.
“The razzmatazz around the Champions League is amazing, but we are playing a team who are defending in 4-4-2, which we will play against here in the league. OK it’s different tiers, but it’s still the same idea.
“You could see right from the off in the second half, the players were absolutely sensational. We could’ve had more than five.”
It was a splendid start to the expanded 36-team, one league, tournament for Celtic, who will play seven further matches.
Borussia Dortmund are up next in Germany in two weeks, and will pose a far stiffer test, before matches against RB Leipzig, Club Brugge and Young Boys in Glasgow and trips to face Atalanta, Dinamo Zagreb and Aston Villa.
A top-eight finish would earn Celtic an automatic last-16 place, with a play-off the prize for team who end up between ninth and 24th place.
According to analysis by Opta, 16 points would almost certainly secure a top-eight place and 10 would be good enough for a play-off spot.
“Our next three games are tough but exciting,” Rodgers added.
“We know it’s a long road, but the first steps are important and the steps we made tonight were fantastic.
“The supporters were sensational. We won the last game of last campaign and the first of this, so we’re trying to make this place a fortress.”
What the pundits said
Media caption,
Joe Hart discusses Celtic’s 5-1 victory
Former Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart: “To start how they did, that energy, that passion from the crowd, the players, Brendan Rodgers… an incredible game.
“They will have seen this as an opportunity, but Celtic haven’t necessarily taken those opportunities in recent times.
“From the first moment, they were on the front foot. Slovan Bratislava must have thought what has hit us?”
Former Scotland international James McFadden: “It’s so good to see a Scottish team the more technical in a game. They looked faster and fitter and played the better football.
“The overall performance level, how good Celtic looked, they were miles ahead.”
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner: “Every single player looked hungry and that’s the making of a good team.
“Keep that up, with the quality they showed tonight, and they’ll be a threat to some of the bigger teams.”
BBC Scotland chief sports writer Tom English: “It was a really strong, dynamic and relentless performance.
“They scored five, they could’ve had eight, and that would have been a fairer reflection of their dominance.
“Great confidence, hunger and edge collectively. That is the story of the night.”
Have your say
Celtic fans, how impressed were you by your side? Has it boosted your confidence for the campaign to come? Or do the tougher tests to come give you the fear?
Good nightpublished at 22:54 British Summer Time 18 September
22:54 BST 18 September
FT: Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
Celtic have had more than their fair share of bruising evenings in the Champions League, so this will feel really good.
A first opening win in the competition at the 13th attempt – and their biggest margin of victory at this stage.
A solid foundation for the tougher tests to come.
Callum McGregorImage source, SNS
Daizen MaedaImage source, SNS
Kasper SchmeichelImage source, SNS
Postpublished at 22:49 British Summer Time 18 September
22:49 BST 18 September
FT: Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
It’s back to domestic duty for Celtic on Sunday with a League Cup quarter-final at home to Falkirk.
Then there’s a Premiership visit to St Johnstone before the next Champions League adventure, away to Borussia Dortmund.
Praise for Engels’ ‘power and composure’published at 22:44 British Summer Time 18 September
22:44 BST 18 September
FT: Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
Arne Engels got a goal and an assist on his Champions League debut and his manager is feeling very pleased about the impact made by his new signing.
“It was a great identification by our recruitment team,” said Brendan Rodgers of the 21-year-old midfielder. “We knew after last season what we wanted, what I wanted in the team, that was someone who has all the ideas that we want in terms of with the ball and technical and tactical ability.
“At this level you need physicality and running power.
“He’s a dead ball specialist. You see his strike, the power in which he hits the ball.
“I’m really pleased for him, he showed really good composure.”
Arne Engels scored Celtic’s third goal from the penalty spotImage source, SNS
Image caption,
Engels scored Celtic’s third goal from the penalty spot
‘We could have had more than five’published at 22:41 British Summer Time 18 September
22:41 BST 18 September
FT: Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
A bit more from the media conference given by Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers.
“We played well in the first half, got the early goal that we wanted, had other more opportunities to be more clinical, but I just felt we were taking one touch too many,” he said.
“A couple of little positional changes, there was too much movement in the first half at times.
“You could see right from the off in the second half, the players were absolutely sensational. When we turned the screw, we were really, really difficult to play against.
“Mentality, hunger, greedy for more goals, greedy for the ball, everyone working right until the very end and we could’ve had more than five.”
‘Trying to make this place a fortress’published at 22:33 British Summer Time 18 September
22:33 BST 18 September
FT: Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
Brendan Rodgers tells TNT Sports he is “so happy” after such a convincing victory.
“We were strong in the first half, but second half, wow,” he says. “The greed of the players, the hunger, the mentality of the team, I am just so proud.”
What was the half-time message?
“We reiterated we don’t need to do anything special, we just have to be us,” he says.
“We don’t want to put the burden on anyone scoring, so sharing the goals is important. They’re such a selfless group.
“We know it’s a long road, but the first steps are important and the steps we made tonight were fantastic.
“The supporters were sensational. We won the last game of last campaign and the first of this, so we’re trying to make this place a fortress.”
Celtic manager Brendan RodgersImage source, SNS
‘Celtic miles ahead’published at 22:30 British Summer Time 18 September
22:30 BST 18 September
FT: Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
James McFadden
Former Scotland forward on BBC Sportsound
It’s so good to see a Scottish team the more technical in a game. They looked faster and fitter and played the better football.
The overall performance level, how good Celtic looked, they were miles ahead of Slovan Bratislava.
Scales relishing added home matchespublished at 22:26 British Summer Time 18 September
22:26 BST 18 September
FT: Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
Before picking up his player of the match award, opening goalscorer Liam Scales told TNT Sports that Celtic “want to have a good go” in the Champions League this time.
“The win, first and foremost, you don’t get results like that in the Champions League like that very often,” he said.
“The format gives us more games, more chances to play at home and the fans can feel that, we can certainly feel that from them.”
On his goal, a 17th minute header from an Arne Engels corner, he said modestly that it was the “perfect delivery”.
Liam Scales with his player of the match awardImage source, SNS
What next for Celtic?published at 22:22 British Summer Time 18 September
22:22 BST 18 September
FT: Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
A step up in quality awaits on matchday 2, with Celtic visiting Borussia Dortmund on 1 October.
The Germans got off to a great start themselves tonight with a 3-0 win away to Club Bruges.
Having finished fifth in the Bundesliga last time, they are currently in second place with seven points from their first three matches.
‘An amazing place to play’published at 22:18 British Summer Time 18 September
22:18 BST 18 September
FT: Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
Losing head coach Vladimir Weiss quickly tells TNT Sports “it is not easy to play here,” after that thumping defeat.
“Celtic have a lot of quality and pace and, when you play as high as we have to play, they take advantage,” he says.
“The pressure from the people is amazing, it’s is an amazing place to play.
“Celtic were very effective.”
Vladimir Weiss looks on at Celtic ParkImage source, SNS
Postpublished at 22:14 British Summer Time 18 September
22:14 BST 18 September
FT: Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
All of these goals have had the stats boffins scrolling through the archives…
It’s the first time Celtic have had five different scorers in a European Cup/Champions League match (excluding own goals) since September 1973 against TPS Turku.
Dixie Deans, George Connelly, Harry Hood, Jimmy Johnstone and Tommy Callaghan were on target against the Finns.
‘Great fun,’ says Celtic skipperpublished at 22:11 British Summer Time 18 September
22:11 BST 18 September
FT: Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
“Everyone had great fun,” Celtic captain Callum McGregor told TNT Sports. “We started the game well, got our goal and both teams were feeling each other out. We felt we’d done well at half-time but thought we had levels to go. Our start to the second half was outstanding.
“This is the next level for the group in terms of growth and development. We always felt like it was important to start well. Bratislava are a good team but the supporters came here full of belief. We had to deliver and we did.”
Callum McGregorImage source, SNS
‘Every player looked hungry’published at 22:07 British Summer Time 18 September
22:07 BST 18 September
FT: Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
Pat Bonner
Former Celtic goalkeeper on BBC Sportsound
Every single player looked hungry and that’s the making of a good team.
Keep that up, with the quality they showed tonight, and they’ll be a threat to some of the bigger teams.
‘Collective class’published at 22:04 British Summer Time 18 September
22:04 BST 18 September
FT: Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
Tom English
BBC Scotland’s chief sports writer on Sportsound
A really strong, dynamic and relentless performance.
They scored five, they could’ve had eight, and that would have been a fairer reflection of their dominance.
Outstanding night for them. Great confidence, hunger and edge collectively.
The collective is the story of the night.
Watch: Celtic hit five for dream startpublished at 22:01 British Summer Time 18 September
22:01 BST 18 September
FT: Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
Media caption,
Highlights: Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
‘Phenomenal work-rate’published at 21:58 British Summer Time 18 September
21:58 BST 18 September
FT: Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
James McFadden
Former Scotland forward on BBC Sportsound
The most impressive and enjoyable part is that in every department, Celtic have been better.
They have shown unbelievable appetite to go and chase the ball down, their work-rate has been phenomenal and, overall, the quality was so much higher than Slovan Bratislava.
‘Impressive first for Celtic’published at 21:54 British Summer Time 18 September
21:54 BST 18 September
FT: Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
Jane Lewis
BBC Scotland at Celtic Park
Celtic win an opening Champions League group match for the first time – and in some style too! Full of energy and intent, it was an impressive display.
They have shown what they are capable of at home and it will set them up nicely for the tougher challenges ahead.
FULL-TIME Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislavapublished at 90+2 mins
90+2 mins
Celtic get off to a fantastic start in the new-look Champions League.
Five different scorers in a one-sided contest.
Liam Scales, Kyogo Furuhashi, Arne Engels, Daizen Maeda and Adam Idah with the goals.
Adam Idah celebratesImage source, SNS
Postpublished at 90+1 mins
90+1 mins
Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
Only two minutes added. Maybe the officials are feeling a bit sorry for the Slovak side?
Postpublished at 90 mins
90 mins
Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
As we enter the final minute of regulation time, Celtic Park is alive with song. Not many nipping off to beat the traffic.
‘Another wonderful goal’published at 21:47 British Summer Time 18 September
21:47 BST 18 September
Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava
James McFadden
Former Scotland forward on BBC Sportsound
Adam Idah stretches that backline and James Forrest has acres of space, all the time in the world to get the perfect weight of pass.
It’s not the best angle, but he just slots it in.
Another wonderful goal.
goal
GOAL Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislavapublished at 86 mins
86 mins
Adam Idah
Make that five different scorers…
James Forrest with a peach of a pass that takes out three defenders and Adam Idah with the first-time finish.
Celtic goal
Postpublished at 85 mins
85 mins
Celtic 4-1 Slovan Bratislava
Auston Trusty is on for a Celtic debut, taking over from fellow American Cameron Carter-Vickers.
Auston TrustyImage source, SNS
CLOSE!published at 84 mins
84 mins
Celtic 4-1 Slovan Bratislava
Sloppy at the back from Celtic and they are almost punished as David Strelec powers a shot narrowly wide.
YELLOW CARDpublished at 80 mins
80 mins
Celtic 4-1 Slovan Bratislava
Cameron Carter-Vickers has the ball popped through his legs and drags his man back for the cheek of it.
Postpublished at 21:38 British Summer Time 18 September
21:38 BST 18 September
Celtic 4-1 Slovan Bratislava
This is the first time Celtic have had four different scorers in a European Cup / Champions League game since October 1988 when they beat Honved in Glasgow.
The scorers that night? Billy Stark, Andy Walker, Frank McAvennie and Mark McGhee.
‘Weiss off’published at 21:36 British Summer Time 18 September
21:36 BST 18 September
Celtic 4-1 Slovan Bratislava
Jane Lewis
BBC Scotland at Celtic Park
Loud jeers there when Vladimir Weiss was subbed off. Fair to say the ex-Rangers player has not had a warm welcome back to Glasgow tonight… He was no doubt expecting it.
Postpublished at 77 mins
77 mins
Celtic 4-1 Slovan Bratislava
A triple change for both teams.
Kyogo, Hatate and Johnston are the men departing for Celtic.
Adam Idah, Paulo Bernardo and Anthony Ralston are their replacements.
Postpublished at 75 mins
75 mins
Celtic 4-1 Slovan Bratislava
Celtic are not slowing down.
Daizen Maeda somehow finds the energy for another surge forward but his final ball leaves a bit to be desired.
Postpublished at 71 mins
71 mins
Celtic 4-1 Slovan Bratislava
Immediately after the fourth goal, Celtic replaced Nicolas Kuhn with James Forrest.
‘Good combination play’published at 21:29 British Summer Time 18 September
21:29 BST 18 September
Celtic 4-1 Slovan Bratislava
Pat Bonner
Former Celtic goalkeeper on BBC Sportsound
Really good combination play between Kyogo, Hatate and Maeda.
Total composure from Maeda.
Hatate and MaedaImage source, SNS
goal
GOAL Celtic 4-1 Slovan Bratislavapublished at 70 mins
70 mins
Daizen Maeda
Celtic are back on Easy Street as Reo Hatate nudges the ball into the path of Daizen Maeda, who slides a composed finish low, beyond the exposed goalkeeper.
Celtic goal
Engels makes his markpublished at 21:24 British Summer Time 18 September
21:24 BST 18 September
Celtic 3-1 Slovan Bratislava
Arne Engels is only the second player to score and assist a goal on his Champions League debut for Celtic – after Henrik Larsson against Juventus in September 2001.
Decent company.
Arne Engels assistImage source, SNS
Arne Engels goalImage source, SNS
CLOSE!published at 62 mins
62 mins
Celtic 3-1 Slovan Bratislava
Celtic captain Callum McGregor tries his luck from distance and his drilled shot zips just wide.
On second viewing, it’s actually a smart save to tip it round the post.
‘Fantastic finish’published at 21:20 British Summer Time 18 September
21:20 BST 18 September
Celtic 3-1 Slovan Bratislava
James McFadden
Former Scotland forward on BBC Sportsound
It’s a poor goal for Celtic to concede under the circumstances.
The ball is there for a long time, but the sting is taken out of it. No back-lift.
It’s a fantastic finish.
Slovan goalImage source, SNS
goal
GOAL Celtic 3-1 Slovan Bratislavapublished at 60 mins
60 mins
Kevin Wimmer
What a strike!
That’s come as quite a surprise, but a wonderful finish from Kevin Wimmer offers the visitors a glimmer of hope.
The Austrian full-back uses the outside of his boot and sends an angled shot right into the top corner.
Slovan Bratislava goal
‘Celtic can go to town’published at 21:16 British Summer Time 18 September
21:16 BST 18 September
Celtic 3-0 Slovan Bratislava
Pat Bonner
Former Celtic goalkeeper on BBC Sportsound
A big, big goal. Now Celtic can really go to town.
Arne EngelsImage source, SNS
‘No chance for goalkeeper’published at 21:16 British Summer Time 18 September
21:16 BST 18 September
Celtic 3-0 Slovan Bratislava
James McFadden
Former Scotland forward on BBC Sportsound
The little step up, the little delay… side-netting. The goalkeeper had no chance.
Celtic’s hunger to come out in this second half to get the goals and make it a really good night in here shows their character.
Arne Engels scoresImage source, SNS
goal
GOAL Celtic 3-0 Slovan Bratislavapublished at 56 mins
56 mins
Arne Engles (pen)
Two penalties in two games, two Celtic goals for new arrival Arne Engels, who looks a class act.
It’s calmly clipped into the corner in much the same fashion as his spot-kick against Hearts on Saturday.
Celtic goal
PENALTY TO CELTICpublished at 55 mins
55 mins
Celtic 2-0 Slovan Bratislava
Alistair Johnston gets to high ball first and gets a clip on the heel.
Postpublished at 54 mins
54 mins
Celtic 2-0 Slovan Bratislava
The boos tell us Vladimir Weiss has the ball, the cheers tells us he’s been tackled…
‘Songs of praise at Celtic Park’published at 21:10 British Summer Time 18 September
21:10 BST 18 September
Celtic 2-0 Slovan Bratislava
Jane Lewis
BBC Scotland at Celtic Park
A second goal for Celtic, and Celtic Park erupts into song. That’s exactly what the fans would have wanted to see, a quick goal in the second half. Celtic tails are up… And the supporters are right behind them.
Postpublished at 49 mins
49 mins
Celtic 2-0 Slovan Bratislava
Celtic are not resting on their laurels, that’s for sure.
Alistair Johnston swings in a beaut of a cross from the right and Daizen Maeda is not far away from meeting it at the back post area.
‘So good from Kuhn’published at 21:07 British Summer Time 18 September
21:07 BST 18 September
Celtic 2-0 Slovan Bratislava
James McFadden
Former Scotland forward on BBC Sportsound
The cross from Kuhn is excellent. It’s so good Kyogo just has to knock it in with his knee.
KyogoImage source, SNS
goal
GOAL Celtic 2-0 Slovan Bratislavapublished at 48 mins
48 mins
Kyogo Furuhashi
Brilliant work from Nicolas Kuhn as he jets past two opponents and drills the ball across goal.
Kyogo is in the right spot to divert the ball in from close range.
Party mode activated at Celtic Park…
Celtic goal
Postpublished at 47 mins
47 mins
Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
Arne Engels crashes in another shot and, again, Dominik Takac is relieved to get something on it.
KICK-OFFpublished at 21:02 British Summer Time 18 September
21:02 BST 18 September
Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
Here we go for the second half.
Can Celtic extend their lead?
Kyogo comes closepublished at 21:00 British Summer Time 18 September
21:00 BST 18 September
HT: Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
Kyogo has had just six touches so far.
His shot, moments after the goal, was kept out by a good save from Dominik Takac.
KyogoImage source, SNS
Stat attack – Celtic on toppublished at 20:58 British Summer Time 18 September
20:58 BST 18 September
HT: Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
First half statsImage source, SNS
Maeda in amongst itpublished at 20:56 British Summer Time 18 September
20:56 BST 18 September
HT: Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
Three attempts, but no goals for Daizen Maeda.
No one has had more efforts than the Japan international.
Daizen MaedaImage source, SNS
Image caption,
Maeda could not beat the keeper from a promising position
‘Celtic should be out of sight’published at 20:52 British Summer Time 18 September
20:52 BST 18 September
HT: Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
Tom English
BBC Scotland’s chief sports writer on Sportsound
Celtic have been completely dominant.
It’s a bit frustrating for them that they haven’t made it two or three, because, my goodness, they’ve created the chances.
Their pressing game is really aggressive and effective.
Celtic should be out of sight by now.
‘Plenty to be positive about’published at 20:50 British Summer Time 18 September
20:50 BST 18 September
HT: Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
Jane Lewis
BBC Scotland at Celtic Park
That was a really enjoyable first half. Celtic thoroughly deserve their lead after playing with so much intensity and confidence.
They will no doubt heed the warning from that chance for Vladimir Weiss, but, on this evidence, will surely create more chances.
Plenty to be positive about, but the Celtic supporters might want a second goal soon just to calm the nerves a wee bit.
HALF-TIME Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislavapublished at 45+1 mins
45+1 mins
So far so good for Celtic.
A header from Liam Scales splits the sides.
Liam Scales celebratesImage source, SNS
Liam Scales celebratesImage source, SNS
Liam Scales celebratesImage source, SNS
Postpublished at 44 mins
44 mins
Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
The big men are up for a free-kick but Arne Engels scuffs the delivery and Slovan clear their lines.
Postpublished at 42 mins
42 mins
Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
Respite for the visitors as Daizen Maeda skews a header wide from Nicolas Kuhn’s dinked cross.
Postpublished at 40 mins
40 mins
Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
Celtic keep coming and Slovan are hanging on, looking a bit frazzled.
‘Celtic pressing for a second’published at 20:40 British Summer Time 18 September
20:40 BST 18 September
Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
Pat Bonner
Former Celtic goalkeeper on BBC Sportsound
It’s a half Celtic don’t want to end, given the tempo they are playing at.
If they can get that second before half-time, it’d make for a much more relieved manager at the break.
Brendan RodgersImage source, SNS
‘Opportunity missed’published at 20:37 British Summer Time 18 September
20:37 BST 18 September
Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
James McFadden
Former Scotland forward on BBC Sportsound
The reaction to win it back is fantastic.
To try and defend Kyogo slightly, the ball might be slightly behind him.
Celtic have had some really good opportunities to have a far more comfortable lead.
Postpublished at 34 mins
34 mins
Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
Made in Japan…
Daizen Maeda pinches the ball near the Slovan penalty area, Reo Hatate slides in a lovely pass and Kyogo gets the shot away.
Unfortunately for Celtic, it’s not Kyogo’s best effort as the ball sails over the target.
‘Huge let off’published at 20:32 British Summer Time 18 September
20:32 BST 18 September
Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
James McFadden
Former Scotland forward on BBC Sportsound
That’s another warning sign for Celtic.
That’s a huge let off.
Postpublished at 30 mins
30 mins
Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
Vladimir Weiss has a great chance to test Kasper Schmeichel as he gathers a neat pass but he checks back on to his right foot and that allows two Celtic defenders to recover and get in the way of his shot.
Take your pic…published at 20:29 British Summer Time 18 September
20:29 BST 18 September
Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
Liam Scales scoresImage source, SNS
Image caption,
Liam Scales nods Celtic into an early lead
Liam Scales headerImage source, SNS
YELLOW CARDpublished at 27 mins
27 mins
Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
A third booking for the visitors goes to Marko Tolic.
Postpublished at 25 mins
25 mins
Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
Arne Engels hammers in a shot from the edge of the box and Dominik Takac manages to push it away. Celtic return the ball swiftly and Nicolas Kuhn is not far from meeting the cross as he steals in at the back post.
Irish eyes are smilingpublished at 20:25 British Summer Time 18 September
20:25 BST 18 September
Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
Liam Scales is the first player from Republic of Ireland to score in the Champions League since Darron Gibson for Manchester United v FC Schalke 04 in May 2011.
Liam Scales scoresImage source, SNS
YELLOW CARDSpublished at 22 mins
22 mins
Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
Kevin Wimmer upends Celtic winger Nicolas Kuhn and then home full-back Alistair Johnston picks up his customary caution.
It’s getting a bit feisty.
YELLOW CARDpublished at 19 mins
19 mins
Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
The Celtic cheers keep coming as former Rangers player Vladimir Weiss is booked for wiping out Arne Engels.
‘Deadly delivery’published at 20:21 British Summer Time 18 September
20:21 BST 18 September
Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
James McFadden
Former Scotland forward on BBC Sportsound
It’s the perfect delivery from Arne Engels.
The pace, the power, the dip.
‘Perfect start’published at 20:21 British Summer Time 18 September
20:21 BST 18 September
Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
Pat Bonner
Former Celtic goalkeeper on BBC Sportsound
Slovan’s zonal marking allowed the movement of Liam Scales, and what movement it was.
The quality of the ball, with pace, all he has to do is connect.
What a perfect start.
Liam Scales celebratesImage source, SNS
GREAT SAVE!published at 18 mins
18 mins
Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislava
Almost a second for Celtic as Kyogo finds himself free and his shot is kept out by the outstretched leg of Dominic Takac.
goal
GOAL Celtic 1-0 Slovan Bratislavapublished at 17 mins
17 mins
Liam Scales
Celtic Park erupts!
The first corner causes a stooshie, the second results in a goal as Liam Scales meets the delivery from Arne Engels to nod home.
The goalie gets two hands to it but can only push the ball high into the net.
Celtic goal
Postpublished at 16 mins
16 mins
Celtic 0-0 Slovan Bratislava
Straight into the defensive wall… But the groans soon turn to cheers as Celtic hunt the loose ball down and force a corner.
Postpublished at 15 mins
15 mins
Celtic 0-0 Slovan Bratislava
Free-kick to Celtic, 25 yards out.
Arne Engels is over it.
Postpublished at 13 mins
13 mins
Celtic 0-0 Slovan Bratislava
A save for Kasper Schmeichel to make and it’s a simple one from Juraj Kucka’s effort.
‘Either side and it’s a goal’published at 20:14 British Summer Time 18 September
20:14 BST 18 September
Celtic 0-0 Slovan Bratislava
Pat Bonner
Former Celtic goalkeeper on BBC Sportsound
A great corner, so well worked.
No one is picking Greg Taylor up, it’s a lovely little cross, but Daizen Maeda has to be doing better, the goalkeeper doesn’t even have to dive.
Either side and it’s a goal.
Postpublished at 12 mins
12 mins
Celtic 0-0 Slovan Bratislava
A third corner is much more like it as the ball works its way to Greg Taylor and his lofted pass picks out Daizen Maeda in a central position.
The Japan forward is under no pressure but heads straight at the goalkeeper.
Postpublished at 11 mins
11 mins
Celtic 0-0 Slovan Bratislava
Two Celtic corners in quick succession, the second one is a real mess, resulting in a throw-in for the visitors.
‘Boos for Weiss’published at 20:10 British Summer Time 18 September
20:10 BST 18 September
Celtic 0-0 Slovan Bratislava
Jane Lewis
BBC Scotland atCeltic Park
Predictably, boos ring out from the Celtic fans every time Vladimir Weiss touches the ball.
Postpublished at 7 mins
7 mins
Celtic 0-0 Slovan Bratislava
Celtic are caught short at the back as David Strelec breaks forward and shimmies his way into the penalty box before his blocked shot loops up on to the roof of the net.
The corner comes to nothing…
‘Playing out of the press’published at 20:06 British Summer Time 18 September
20:06 BST 18 September
Celtic 0-0 Slovan Bratislava
James McFadden
Former Scotland forward on BBC Sportsound
What a goal that would’ve been.
Celtic have been under pressure, but they play out of the press so well.
I thought Maeda was going to square it to Kyogo, but what a move.
Postpublished at 4 mins
4 mins
Celtic 0-0 Slovan Bratislava
Celtic Park rises as one as Daizen Maeda gathers a ball over the top and makes his way into the penalty area from the left, only to lash a shot high over the top.
Daizen MaedaImage source, SNS
Postpublished at 3 mins
3 mins
Celtic 0-0 Slovan Bratislava
The visitors certainly don’t look overawed, with some nice touches in the opening exchanges.
Celtic need to be switched on.
KICK-OFFpublished at 20:00 British Summer Time 18 September
20:00 BST 18 September
Celtic 0-0 Slovan Bratislava
A peep of the whistle from Dutch referee Danny Makkelie and away we go.
Celtic’s last outing, a 2-1 win over Feyenoord in December, ended a run of 12 home Champions League group games without a win.
Can they make it two in a row?
‘Celtic want to leave a mark’published at 19:59 British Summer Time 18 September
19:59 BST 18 September
Celtic v Slovan Bratislava (20:00)
James McFadden
Former Scotland forward on BBC Sportsound
Celtic want to go and leave a mark in Europe, something they haven’t done in a very long time.
They’re in a really strong position to do that.
I think this is the season you will see the evolution of Brendan Rodgers. He’s adapted, he’s changed and everyone is benefitting from that.
Almost there…published at 19:56 British Summer Time 18 September
19:56 BST 18 September
Celtic v Slovan Bratislava (20:00)
Here come the teams. The noise is turned up to 11!
Coefficient in need of a boostpublished at 19:55 British Summer Time 18 September
19:55 BST 18 September
Celtic v Slovan Bratislava (20:00)
Celtic are appearing at this stage for the third successive season, qualifying automatically each time.
But a waning coefficient for Scotland removes that privilege for next year, with the champions going into the qualifying play-off round.
And it could get worse… Unless our teams perform well this time round.
The coefficient cycle works over five years, which means 2019-20, when Celtic and Rangers reached the knockout phase of the Europa League, drops off.
A home win tonight would be a good start.
Sound and light showpublished at 19:53 British Summer Time 18 September
19:53 BST 18 September
Celtic 0-0 Slovan Bratislava
Jane Lewis
BBC Scotland at Celtic Park
Disco lights are in full swing as night falls at Celtic Park. Noise levels at an optimum!
Celtic ParkImage source, SNS
McGregor closing in on centurypublished at 19:50 British Summer Time 18 September
19:50 BST 18 September
Celtic v Slovan Bratislava (20:00)
Celtic captain Callum McGregor is making his 95th European appearance.
The 31-year-old midfielder has started the season in impressive form and has three Premiership goals already.
Celtic captain Callum McGregor warming upImage source, SNS
Postpublished at 19:46 British Summer Time 18 September
19:46 BST 18 September
Celtic v Slovan Bratislava (20:00)
The teams have met once before, in the 1963-64 European Cup Winners’ Cup quarter-finals.
Celtic won both legs 1-0 thanks to goals from Bobby Murdoch and John Hughes.
‘Very favourable draw for Celtic’published at 19:43 British Summer Time 18 September
19:43 BST 18 September
Celtic v Slovan Bratislava (20:00)
James McFadden
Former Scotland forward on BBC Sportsound
This is a very favourable draw for Celtic, one they can really go and attack. These are very good home ties.
Once you get the points on the board, you can start looking forward to going and playing Dortmund, the occasion and going to try and cause an upset.
It’s a tremendous draw for them, there are some great ties and the home ties are the ones they’ll be looking forward to because they know they can win them.
Who else are Celtic playing?published at 19:40 British Summer Time 18 September
19:40 BST 18 September
Celtic v Slovan Bratislava (20:00)
Never mind quantum mechanics or climate change, supercomputers were designed to work out football tournaments, right?
Opta crunched the numbers and calculated Celtic have lucked out with the statistically easiest draw. However, it’s not all good news since they predict a 28th place finish.
Let’s have a look at what’s to come for Celtic…
Slovan Bratislava (H)
Borussia Dortmund (A)
Atalanta (A)
RB Leipzig (H)
Club Bruges (H)
Dinamo Zagreb (A)
Young Boys (H)
Aston Villa (A)
It’s been a while for Schmeichel…published at 19:37 British Summer Time 18 September
19:37 BST 18 September
Celtic v Slovan Bratislava (20:00)
Kasper Schmeichel hasn’t had much to do since joining Celtic in the summer.
The Denmark captain may be a bit busier on these European nights.
He’s making his first Champions League appearance since April 2017 for Leicester City against Atletico Madrid.
Celtic’s Kasper Schmeichel warms upImage source, SNS
Lucky 13?published at 19:34 British Summer Time 18 September
19:34 BST 18 September
Celtic v Slovan Bratislava (20:00)
In 12 attempts, Celtic have never won their first game in the group phase.
Will the change of format, bring a change in fortunes?
‘What a night for a game’published at 19:31 British Summer Time 18 September
19:31 BST 18 September
Celtic v Slovan Bratislava (20:00)
Jane Lewis
BBC Scotland at Celtic Park
What a night for a game of football. Celtic Park is bathed in glorious sunshine. Lets hope the action lives up to the weather.
Celtic fans outside the stadiumImage source, SNS
‘We want to impose our game’published at 19:27 British Summer Time 18 September
19:27 BST 18 September
Celtic v Slovan Bratislava (20:00)
Brendan Rodgers has been telling Uefa Celtic want to “impose themselves” in this opening game of the Champions League.
“At home, we want to impose our game,” he says. “We have that attacking mentality, but balanced with being composed in defence.”
On tonight’s opponents, he adds: “Every team who plays in the Champions League comes with confidence, with being successful. They have great experience in their team and talent up front that we have to be mindful of.”
‘Celtic much better prepared’published at 19:24 British Summer Time 18 September
19:24 BST 18 September
Celtic v Slovan Bratislava (20:00)
James McFadden
Former Scotland forward on BBC Sportsound
You have to have a strong squad to compete. This is a squad that is constructed to deal with a season.
This is a squad that can play in any game, league, cup, Champions League, it doesn’t matter.
Celtic are much better prepared this season. On paper, this squad are capable of dealing with the demands of big game after big game.
Another Weiss knows Celtic wellpublished at 19:22 British Summer Time 18 September
19:22 BST 18 September
Celtic v Slovan Bratislava (20:00)
The visiting captain just happens to be the manager’s son – and also happens to be called Vladimir Weiss.
The 34-year-old forward is sure to get a ‘warm welcome’ since he spent the 2010-11 season on loan at Rangers while on the books of Manchester City.
He left Scotland with a league and League Cup double, appearing as a late substitute in that final success against Celtic.
Vladimir Weiss during his Rangers daysImage source, SNS
Image caption,
Vladimir Weiss jnr celebrates Rangers’ League Cup final victory
Postpublished at 19:20 British Summer Time 18 September
19:20 BST 18 September
Celtic v Slovan Bratislava (20:00)
It’s one thing talking about the atmosphere, dealing with it is quite another…
Slovan have a number of experienced internationals but, given their average home attendance is a little over 5,000, the noise level at a packed Celtic Park could well spook a few of the opponents.
Braced for ‘best atmosphere’published at 19:18 British Summer Time 18 September
19:18 BST 18 September
Celtic v Slovan Bratislava (20:00)
“Of course there are memories and nobody can take them away from you,” said Vladimir Weiss on Tuesday when asked about that 2005 contest.
“Now we are up against a Celtic side that are faster and have a different style of play than 19 years ago.
“We know what to expect. We have several players who have played here before and they know about the atmosphere.
“A lot of players have said this is the best atmosphere in the world. We have enough experience to not give in to this atmosphere and not make mistakes.
“We know that most of the game we will be under pressure. Just like we get emotion and energy from our fans, Celtic will get that. So you have to have self-confidence and discipline.”
Vladimir WeissImage source, SNS
Image caption,
Can Vladimir Weiss cause an upset at Celtic Park?
Weiss has history with Celticpublished at 19:16 British Summer Time 18 September
19:16 BST 18 September
Celtic v Slovan Bratislava (20:00)
Slovan head coach Vladimir Weiss has been to Celtic Park before – and he was smiling after a 4-0 defeat.
Why? Because his Artmedia Bratislava side had won the first leg of the 2005 Champions League qualifier 5-0, ruining Gordon Strachan’s debut as Celtic boss.
Weiss, 59, is in his second spell with Slovan and has managed the national teams of Slovakia and Georgia.