The Europa League group stage often delivers compelling narratives, pitting historic clubs against each other in matches that blend drama, atmosphere, and tactical intrigue. The clash in Belgrade between Red Star and Celtic epitomized all of those qualities. Played in front of a deafening Rajko Mitić Stadium crowd, the game ended 1-1, with Kelechi Iheanacho’s debut European goal for Celtic cancelled out by a determined Red Star response.
For Celtic, it was a night of both promise and frustration: promise in seeing their new striker hit the ground running on the continental stage, but frustration in their inability to capitalize on early dominance. For Red Star, it was another demonstration of resilience and their capacity to draw strength from their passionate supporters.
This article breaks down the match in detail, analyzing key moments, tactical battles, standout performances, fan atmosphere, and the broader implications for both sides as they embark on their Europa League journeys.
First Half Celtic Strike First
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Early Control
Celtic arrived in Belgrade with intent. Manager Brendan Rodgers set up his side in a 4-2-3-1 formation, aiming to control midfield and use pace on the flanks to stretch Red Star’s compact defense. From the outset, Celtic dictated possession, probing patiently and testing the home side’s resolve.
The central midfield pairing of Callum McGregor and Matt O’Riley ensured Celtic recycled the ball effectively, while wingers Liel Abada and Daizen Maeda sought to exploit the spaces behind Red Star’s full-backs.
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Iheanacho’s Breakthrough
The breakthrough came in the 18th minute, and it was one for Celtic fans to savor. A slick passing sequence involving O’Riley and Abada carved open Red Star’s defense. Abada whipped in a teasing low cross that Iheanacho, timing his run perfectly, converted with a composed finish past goalkeeper Omri Glazer.
For Iheanacho, who joined Celtic during the summer window, this was more than just a goal. It was a statement of his intent to be a central figure in Rodgers’ European campaign. His celebration — a mix of relief and exhilaration — captured the significance of the moment.
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Red Star’s Response
The hosts, stunned by the early setback, gradually grew into the game. Roared on by their ultras, Red Star increased their intensity, pressing higher and looking to force errors from Celtic’s backline. Their best first-half chance fell to Aleksandar Katai, who tested Joe Hart with a powerful strike from distance, but the veteran goalkeeper reacted sharply.
At halftime, Celtic held a deserved 1-0 lead, but the sense lingered that Red Star had more to offer.
Second Half Red Star Fight Back
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Shift in Momentum
Red Star emerged after the break with renewed determination. Their manager adjusted tactics, pushing an extra man into midfield to disrupt Celtic’s control. This change paid dividends, as the home side began to dictate tempo and pin Celtic back.
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The Equalizer
The pressure told in the 61st minute. A corner swung in from the left was only partially cleared. The ball fell kindly to Red Star captain Aleksandar Dragović, who unleashed a powerful shot that deflected off a Celtic defender and wrong-footed Joe Hart. The stadium erupted as Red Star drew level, and suddenly momentum shifted firmly in their favor.
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Celtic on the Back Foot
For much of the second half, Celtic struggled to regain composure. Iheanacho worked tirelessly to hold up play, but service became sporadic. Abada and Maeda were forced deeper, tracking Red Star’s adventurous full-backs. Rodgers’ substitutions, introducing David Turnbull and James Forrest, provided fresh legs but little in terms of attacking spark.
Key Tactical Themes
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Celtic’s Missed Chances
Despite controlling large portions of the first half, Celtic lacked ruthlessness in front of goal. Apart from Iheanacho’s finish, they squandered two promising opportunities — Abada’s effort dragged wide and O’Riley’s header straight at the keeper. In European competition, such profligacy often proves costly, and so it was here.
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Red Star’s Resilience
Red Star demonstrated why they remain a formidable side at home. Their tactical shift to crowd midfield and press Celtic disrupted the visitors’ rhythm. They also leveraged set pieces effectively, with the equalizer coming from sustained pressure in the penalty area.
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Iheanacho’s Role
Though not a constant threat in the second half, Iheanacho’s movement and intelligence were evident. He stretched Red Star’s defense, created space for teammates, and took his goal clinically. His performance hinted at a striker who could become indispensable for Celtic in Europe.
Atmosphere in Belgrade
Few venues in world football rival the Rajko Mitić Stadium — also known as the Marakana — for sheer intensity. The Red Star ultras, with their pyrotechnics, chants, and unwavering support, created a cauldron of noise that clearly inspired their players.
For Celtic, who are no strangers to passionate home support at Parkhead, it was a reminder of the challenges of European away fixtures. Several Celtic players admitted post-match that communication on the pitch was nearly impossible due to the noise.
Standout Performers
- Kelechi Iheanacho (Celtic): Took his chance clinically and worked hard throughout. His composure and finishing ability bode well for Celtic’s European campaign.
- Matt O’Riley (Celtic): Controlled midfield in the first half, linking play effectively, though faded as Red Star grew stronger.
- Aleksandar Katai (Red Star): Constantly probing with dribbles and shots, he was Red Star’s most dangerous attacking outlet.
- Aleksandar Dragović (Red Star): Not only scored the equalizer but also marshaled his defense with authority.
Manager Reactions
- Brendan Rodgers (Celtic): Acknowledged the positives of Iheanacho’s debut goal but lamented his side’s inability to maintain control in the second half. Rodgers emphasized the importance of learning to manage hostile away environments in Europe.
- Barak Bachar (Red Star): Praised his team’s resilience and ability to respond under pressure. He highlighted the importance of the fans in driving the players forward and expressed confidence about progressing from the group.
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