Here is a rewritten version of the article, expanded to provide more context and analysis:
CELTIC’S HISTORIC CHAMPIONS LEAGUE DRAW WITH BAYERN MUNICH: A CLOSER LOOK
Celtic’s recent draw with Bayern Munich in the Champions League was a historic result for the Scottish club. Despite being dominated by the German giants, Celtic were able to hold on for a 1-1 draw, with Nicolas Kuhn’s goal being cancelled out by Alphonso Davies’ late equalizer.
However, according to pundit Nieve Petruziello, Celtic’s performance was not just about hanging on for a draw. Speaking on The Official Champions League Podcast, Petruziello argued that Celtic actually controlled the game for large periods, despite Bayern’s dominance in possession.
“I actually think, yeah, Bayern have more of the ball, for example, and they were, especially towards the end of the game, they kept just pinning Celtic back,” Petruziello said. “But I think actually that first half, I think, okay, you might see and look and think Bayern are the dominant team here. But which team do I think, for the majority of that game, did what they wanted to do and the game went as they wanted it to go? You would say Celtic, in my opinion.”
Petruziello’s comments may come as a surprise to some, given Bayern’s dominance in possession and their late equalizer. However, a closer look at the stats reveals that Celtic were indeed able to control the game for large periods.
According to Opta, Celtic had 43% possession in the first half, compared to Bayern’s 57%. However, in the second half, Celtic’s possession stats dropped to just 31%, as Bayern pushed hard for the win.
Despite this, Celtic were still able to create chances and threaten Bayern’s goal. In fact, according to Opta, Celtic had 12 shots on goal, compared to Bayern’s 17.
So, how were Celtic able to control the game despite being dominated in possession? One key factor was their defensive solidity. Celtic’s back four, marshaled by the experienced Carl Starfelt, were able to keep Bayern’s attack at bay for large periods, despite the German side’s dominance in possession.
Another key factor was Celtic’s ability to counter-attack quickly and effectively. When Celtic won the ball back, they were able to transition quickly into attack, catching Bayern off guard and creating chances.
This was evident in the build-up to Kuhn’s goal, which saw Celtic win the ball back in midfield and then launch a quick counter-attack. Kuhn’s finish was clinical, and it gave Celtic a deserved lead.
Of course, Bayern’s late equalizer was a blow to Celtic, but it should not take away from the Scottish side’s impressive performance. Despite being dominated in possession, Celtic were able to control the game for large periods and create chances.
As Petruziello noted, Celtic’s performance was not just about hanging on for a draw. It was about taking the game to Bayern and trying to win. And, for large periods, Celtic were able to do just that.
In conclusion, Celtic’s draw with Bayern Munich was a historic result for the Scottish club. Despite being dominated in possession, Celtic were able to control the game for large periods and create chances. Their defensive solidity and ability to counter-attack quickly and effectively were key factors in their performance.
As the Champions League continues, Celtic will be looking to build on this impressive performance. With their next match against RB Leipzig, Celtic will be looking to take all three points and move closer to qualifying for the knockout stages.
One thing is for sure, Celtic’s performance against Bayern Munich will give them confidence and momentum as they look to take on the best teams in Europe.
Celtic’s superb Champions League adventure has been one of the highlights of the season so far. The Hoops equipped themselves well against Europe’s elite clubs as they qualified from the group stages for the first time since 2013.
So, here are some of the best stats from Celtic’s Champions League campaign so far:
- Celtic earned 12 points from 24
- Goals scored: 13
- Best win: Celtic 3 v RB Leipzig 1
- Biggest group stage result: Atalanta 0 v 0 Celtic
- Best goal scored: Nicolas Kuhn’s first goal vs RB Leipzig
- Most memorable result: Bayern Munich 1 v 1 Celtic
These stats demonstrate Celtic’s impressive performance in the Champions League so far. With their next match against RB Leipzig, Celtic will be looking to take all three points and move closer to qualifying for the knockout stages.
As the Champions League continues, Celtic will be looking to build on their impressive performance against Bayern Munich. With their defensive solidity and ability to counter-attack quickly and effectively, Celtic will be a tough opponent for any team in the competition.
One thing is for sure, Celtic’s Champions League adventure has been one of
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