Celtic's Europa League campaign kicked off with a gritty draw against Red Star Belgrade, a result that manager Brendan Rodgers described as a "good point" for his squad. This match, held in the intimidating Marakana Stadium, showcased Celtic's resilience and adaptability in the face of a challenging opponent.

A New Chapter for Celtic

Twelve months ago, Rodgers was brimming with confidence ahead of Celtic's Champions League opener. However, a disappointing play-off defeat to Kairat Almaty dashed their hopes of returning to Europe's elite competition. Now, the Scottish champions find themselves in the Europa League, a competition where realism and pragmatism are key.

Key Performances

Kelechi Iheanacho, the Nigerian forward, emerged as a pivotal figure in this match. Brought on at halftime, Iheanacho provided Celtic with a much-needed focal point in attack, helping to secure a valuable point. His performance was a bright spot in an otherwise subdued match, offering a glimpse of what he can bring to the team.

Tactical Adjustments

Rodgers made only one change at halftime, introducing Iheanacho to inject some urgency into Celtic's play. Despite making further substitutions in the second half, none had the same impact as the Nigerian international. This highlighted the limitations of Celtic's current squad, particularly in the absence of key players like Kyogo Furuhashi and Jota.

Fan Reactions

The draw elicited mixed reactions from Celtic fans. While some praised the team's resilience in a tough away fixture, others expressed frustration at the lack of quality and energy. The absence of significant summer signings has left many supporters questioning the club's ambition in European competitions.

Looking Ahead

Rodgers emphasized the need for realism when assessing Celtic's prospects in the Europa League. With a squad that has undergone significant changes and faced numerous challenges, the focus is on steady progress rather than immediate success. As Celtic continues its journey in the Europa League, the lessons learned from this match will be crucial in shaping their campaign.

Conclusion

Celtic's draw against Red Star Belgrade may not have been a glamorous result, but it was a step in the right direction. Under Rodgers' pragmatic leadership, the team is adapting to its new reality in the Europa League. With key players stepping up and a renewed sense of purpose, Celtic aims to build on this foundation as they navigate the challenges ahead.