LASK ends Celtic's Champions League hopes with astonishing comeback

Celtic's Champions League aspirations were dramatically dashed Tuesday night as they surrendered a four-goal aggregate lead against Austrian club LASK, ultimately losing 5-4 in a stunning comeback. This historic collapse marks one of the most disappointing European nights in the club's history.

Celtic entered the playoff match in Linz with a commanding 3-0 advantage from the first leg. Captain Callum McGregor extended their lead in the 21st minute, seemingly putting the Scottish champions on course for the group stage. However, the mood quickly soured as LASK equalized in the 32nd minute.

The second half saw a complete turnaround. LASK scored four more goals, winning the match 5-1 on the night and leveling the aggregate score. Substitute Florian Flecker netted the equalizer in the 90th minute after a VAR review, forcing the game into extra time. Samuel Adeniran then scored his second goal in the 109th minute, sealing Celtic's fate.

“

We got what we deserved. We were passive all night. We looked scared to go and win the game.

Goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo managed to save a penalty in the 115th minute, preventing LASK from extending their lead further. McGregor expressed his disappointment post-match, stating, "We got what we deserved. We were passive all night. We looked scared to go and win the game." He added, "We have to suck it up. We apologize to our supporters and the club because there's no way we should lose that game."

With this defeat, Celtic will compete in the Europa League for the upcoming season, a stark contrast to their Champions League ambitions.

“

We have to suck it up. We apologize to our supporters and the club because there's no way we should lose that game.