Celtic’s Statement Win in Rotterdam Under Martin O’Neill
So, let me walk you through what turned into a huge night for Celtic — one that felt like a throwback to a different era, yet completely alive in the present moment. The team went into Rotterdam facing Feyenoord in a Europa League clash that could easily have overwhelmed them. Instead, it became a statement performance, guided by none other than Martin O’Neill, the club legend who stepped back into the job just a month ago to steady the ship during a turbulent period.
When O'Neill returned, Celtic were drifting: eight points off the top of the Scottish Premiership, fans protesting against the board, and confidence draining away after Brendan Rodgers’ abrupt departure. Even O’Neill admitted that while his daughters encouraged him to take the job, his wife joked that he'd “probably mess it up.” But fast-forward to this week, and he has now won five out of his six games in charge, including this remarkable 3-1 away win — Celtic's first European away victory since 2021 and their first win in the Netherlands since 2001, when O’Neill himself was first calling the shots.
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The match didn’t start kindly. Feyenoord struck early through Ayase Ueda, and for a moment it looked like Celtic might crumble under the pressure. But something has shifted in this team under O’Neill. Instead of folding, they responded with grit and clarity. Yang Hyun-jun and Reo Hatate turned the game around before half-time, showing the kind of composure and belief that had been missing for months. Then late in the game, Benjamin Nygren came off the bench and smashed in a third goal off the underside of the bar, sealing a victory that felt bigger than just three points.
What stood out wasn’t only the scoreline — it was the character. Celtic had shaky moments, they rode their luck at times, but they also controlled long spells, pressed bravely, and trusted their own quality. O’Neill said afterward that the win gives the players belief that they can “compete,” especially away from home in Europe where results have been scarce. You could see that confidence building as the game went on.
And while O’Neill is expected to step aside soon for incoming manager Wilfried Nancy, he’s clearly leaving Celtic in a far better place than he found them. He talks about the importance of restoring confidence, improving the squad, and leaning on the winners already in the dressing room. Players like Luke McCowan praised his man-management, saying he brings calm, humour, and a sense of purpose.
The fans in Rotterdam chanted his name, just like they did two decades ago. And honestly, you could feel why — the man still has it. This wasn’t just a win; it felt like a reminder of what Celtic can be when belief, structure, and spirit come together. And O’Neill, even at 73, was right at the heart of it.
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