Celtic 4–2 Utrecht: Hoops Blitz Dutch Visitors to Seal Europa League Play-off Spot – Sportsphere24
Celtic delivered a fast, clinical performance at Celtic Park, defeating FC Utrecht 4–2 to secure their place in the Europa League knockout play-offs on the final day of the league phase. Under Martin O’Neill, the Hoops raced into a 3–0 lead within the opening 20 minutes, and despite a spirited Utrecht fightback, comfortably secured a top-24 finish, guaranteeing a February play-off tie.
Lightning Start from Celtic
Knowing a win was essential for progression, Celtic struck almost immediately. Benjamin Nygren opened the scoring in the 6th minute from close range, calming early nerves at Celtic Park.
Four minutes later, Utrecht defender Nick Viergever turned the ball into his own net under pressure, handing Celtic a 2–0 advantage. The Hoops made it 3–0 in the 19th minute as Arne Engels calmly converted a penalty after Sead Haksabanovic was fouled in the box, completing a dream start for O’Neill’s men.
Utrecht Response and Second-Half Control
Despite the heavy early deficit, Utrecht refused to fold. Dani de Wit pulled one back shortly before half-time, making it 3–1 and giving the Dutch side a glimmer of hope.
After the interval, Utrecht cut the deficit further to 3–2 in the 62nd minute through Adrian Blake, briefly raising the possibility of a comeback. Celtic restored control just four minutes later, with Auston Trusty powering a header for 4–2, effectively sealing the win and killing Utrecht’s momentum.
Key Performers and Tactical Notes
-
Benjamin Nygren remained a constant threat, linking well with Daizen Maeda and Yang Hyun-jun in Celtic’s fluid front line.
-
Callum McGregor, as captain, dictated the tempo from midfield, while Arne Engels showcased creativity and composure, notably with his first-half penalty.
-
At the back, Auston Trusty scored the fourth goal and made crucial defensive interventions as Utrecht pressed forward.
-
Kieran Tierney’s overlapping runs from left-back and Celtic’s 3-2-3 possession structure allowed the team to overload Utrecht’s flanks and dominate early attacking play.
Europa League Implications
The win elevated Celtic to 11 points in the league-phase table, confirming a top‑24 finish and a knockout play-off berth. The Hoops will face either Ferencváros or Stuttgart in a two-legged tie, with progression offering a pathway to the round of 16 under UEFA’s revamped format.
For Utrecht, the defeat ended a disappointing campaign with just one point from eight games and a -10 goal difference. Despite glimpses of character, their slow starts and defensive lapses throughout the league phase left them far short of the standard needed to stay in Europe.