Celtic clinched Champions League knockout football for the first time in 12 years after Loris Benito's late own goal secured a dramatic victory over Young Boys on a nerve-shredding night at Celtic Park. The match, held on January 22, 2025, saw the hosts push for the win needed to advance beyond the group stages, displaying determination and resilience amid missed opportunities.
The atmosphere within Celtic Park was electric, described by Young Boys forward Cedric Itten, who played under the pressure of the famed Glasgow crowd. "The place will be full of 60,000 fans. And they are loud… very loud, in fact!" Itten shared, highlighting the intensity of the match environment. He emphasized the importance of starting strong to avoid conceding early. "You have to fight back at the beginning and not let in a goal in the first 15 minutes. That would be the worst thing to happen. The stadium would be on fire!"
Itten's warnings were not without merit, as Celtic's first half displayed aggression and frustration. Despite their dominance, they were unable to secure the lead. Notably, Kyogo Furuhashi had three goals ruled out for offside and fould build-ups, raising tensions among the home fans. Young Boys were also granted opportunities, most prominently through Arne Engels, who missed a penalty following Greg Taylor's foul. The stuttered effort was saved without much concern from goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, maintaining the pressure on the Young Boys as they struggled to find their footing.
The second half transformed as both teams seemed to battle the weight of expectation. Celtic's high-tempo play began to wane; passes became erratic as Young Boys pressed higher up the pitch, seeking their first points of the campaign. Yet, Schmeichel was resolute, pulling off key saves to keep Celtic level. The game appeared destined for disappointment until disaster struck for Young Boys.
With only minutes left, Adam Idah's shot, initially saved by Young Boys' goalkeeper Marvin Keller, deflected off Benito, cascading the ball toward the net and igniting celebrations across Celtic Park. It was bittersweet for Young Boys, marking yet another own goal contributing to their lengthy losing streak.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers, visibly relieved by the late heroics, acknowledged the emotional rollercoaster experienced during the match. “For us to win it, it shows the maturity and the development of this squad,” he noted, reflecting on both the struggles and triumphs of the evening. The victory not only secures their progression but also reinstates Celtic’s presence among European elites, having not reached these stages for over a decade.
Although Young Boys faced the specter of being eliminated without scoring points, coach Giorgio Contini remained hopeful. “It’s important we arrive with a good mindset,” he commented, focusing on building confidence moving forward. Young Boys, now facing the reality of their situation with no points and 22 goals conceded, have much to improve upon.
This match marked another chapter in the storied history between the two teams, as Celtic continues their unbeaten home run, bolstered by strong performances at Celtic Park. With upcoming challenges on the horizon, both teams must navigate their respective paths carefully. Celtic’s resilience can be their hallmark moving forward, whereas Young Boys must grasp the fragmented remains of their pride and turn the tide before the season concludes.
Celtic fans reflected on this momentous night, buoyed by the return to elite competition and the atmosphere created by their loyal supporters. The combination of historical significance alongside the exhilaration of victory reaffirms Celtic’s status as mainstays within the larger European football hierarchy.