Until Tuesday, Celtic’s campaign had been progressing smoothly. The reigning champions had recorded three domestic victories without allowing a goal and secured a commanding 3-0 first-leg win over LASK in their Champions League play-off.
Their advantage grew after they scored first in the return fixture in Austria. However, LASK responded with four goals to force extra time before adding a fifth, ending Celtic’s hopes and sending them into the Europa League.
They are set to meet Benfica, Bestikas, Celta Vigo, Ferencvaros, Marseille, Omonia, Torreense and Union SG during the autumn. Before those fixtures, their attention returns to domestic competition, beginning with Saturday’s home game against Falkirk at 15:00 BST.
Celtic’s strong form before the trip to Austria, combined with five victories from five meetings with Falkirk last season, makes them clear favourites. Even so, the Premiership champions may still feel the effects of their difficult European night.
Captain Callum McGregor described the team’s display against the Austrian champions as “passive” and “frightened”. The speed with which Celtic lost control of the tie was certainly a major concern.
Martin O’Neill’s team played 120 minutes in midweek, whereas Falkirk have had two weeks to recover and prepare for this match.
Nevertheless, John McGlynn’s team are still searching for their first league victory of the campaign and face an extremely difficult challenge in Glasgow.
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