SBOTOP Celtic Break Through: Scales and Nygren Strike to Earn First Europa League Victory Over Sturm Graz

Celtic finally broke their Europa League duck this season with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Sturm Graz at Celtic Park. Liam Scales and Benjamin Nygren were the heroes for the hosts, delivering a performance that was equal parts determined, tactical, and composed. After a challenging start to their European campaign, this result marks a pivotal moment for Ange Postecoglou’s side, giving them both confidence and momentum as they look to progress from the group stage.

For Sturm Graz, the result was bitterly disappointing. The Austrian side had arrived in Glasgow with high hopes, buoyed by solid performances in domestic and European competition. Yet despite their efforts, Celtic’s home advantage, combined with key moments of clinical finishing, proved decisive. This was a match that showcased the intensity, unpredictability, and drama of European football — and highlighted the resilience of a Celtic team that refused to be denied.

First Half Celtic’s Steady Start

The opening stages of the match were measured, with Celtic taking time to assert control. Sturm Graz were quick to test the hosts, pressing high and attempting to disrupt the rhythm of the game. The Austrian side’s midfield trio showed composure and ambition, moving the ball quickly to exploit spaces between Celtic’s defensive lines.

However, Celtic’s defensive organization was solid. Carl Starfelt and Josip Juranović marshaled the backline with discipline, closing gaps and cutting off passing lanes. Liam Scales, who would later become one of the key protagonists, showed early glimpses of his influence — calm in possession, alert defensively, and willing to step into midfield to support the build-up.

Celtic’s first clear chance came in the 18th minute. Jota’s clever movement pulled Sturm Graz defenders out of position, allowing Nygren to receive the ball at the edge of the box. The Swede’s shot was on target but comfortably saved by goalkeeper Alexander Kofler. While not spectacular, the moment set the tone: Celtic were patient, probing for weaknesses, and waiting for the right opportunity to strike.

Liam Scales Opens the Scoring

The breakthrough came in the 27th minute and, somewhat fittingly, involved Scales at the heart of the action. A well-executed corner by Callum McGregor found the towering defender at the near post. Rising above his marker, Scales delivered a header that rocketed into the net, leaving Kofler no chance. 1-0 Celtic.

The goal sparked jubilant celebrations among the home supporters, who had been growing anxious as Sturm Graz’s pressing remained a constant threat. Scales’ goal was emblematic of Celtic’s game plan: a combination of patient buildup, calculated risk-taking, and a readiness to capitalize on set-piece opportunities.

For Sturm Graz, the goal was a psychological blow. While they continued to play with composure, the visitors became slightly more hesitant, aware that one lapse could prove costly. Celtic’s dominance in key moments was beginning to tell.

Sturm Graz Responds

True to form, Sturm Graz did not capitulate. Their resilience was evident in the 36th minute when Kelvin Arase found space on the left flank and delivered a dangerous cross into the Celtic box. Jonjoe Kenny, despite his defensive efforts, failed to clear effectively, allowing Reinhold Ranftl to pounce and score. 1-1.

The equalizer tested Celtic’s resolve. For a brief period, the hosts were on the back foot, trying to regain control as Sturm Graz pressed aggressively. Postecoglou’s tactical adjustments were crucial at this juncture. The introduction of higher pressing triggers and tighter marking helped Celtic regain composure, and gradually, they began to dictate possession again.

Nygren’s movement off the ball became increasingly significant. The young Swede’s ability to drift between lines and exploit space provided Celtic with an additional attacking outlet, creating uncertainty in the Sturm Graz defensive shape.

Second Half Celtic Take Control

The second half opened with a more assertive Celtic side. Postecoglou’s instructions were clear: dominate possession, control the midfield, and probe for openings while maintaining defensive solidity. The approach worked. McGregor and Callum McGregor’s midfield partnership began to impose itself, dictating tempo and distributing passes with increasing accuracy.

Celtic’s second goal arrived in the 57th minute, a testament to their patience and tactical discipline. Nygren, finding space in the right channel, received a precise through ball from McGregor. With excellent composure, the Swede cut inside and curled a low shot beyond Kofler’s reach. 2-1 Celtic.

The goal was a psychological masterstroke. Sturm Graz, who had shown resilience throughout the first half, now appeared to struggle with confidence. Celtic, buoyed by the lead, intensified their pressing, forcing errors and capitalizing on any opportunity to transition quickly from defense to attack.

Tactical Analysis Postecoglou’s Masterclass

Ange Postecoglou’s influence was evident in every phase of the game. His Celtic side displayed a blend of disciplined defensive organization and dynamic attacking transitions that proved difficult for Sturm Graz to handle.

Defensively, the team maintained a compact shape, with the back four supported effectively by midfielders stepping into space to intercept passes and disrupt rhythm. Scales and Starfelt provided aerial dominance, while Juranović and Kenny offered width and balance.

In attack, Celtic’s transitions were intelligent. By exploiting the wings and encouraging diagonal runs from Nygren and Jota, they consistently forced Sturm Graz defenders into uncomfortable positions. Set pieces were also executed with precision, as evidenced by Scales’ opening goal.

Postecoglou’s tactical adjustments at halftime were equally critical. By tweaking pressing triggers and maintaining a high line, Celtic were able to regain momentum, control possession, and ultimately secure the winning goal.

Key Performances

Liam Scales: The Irish defender was instrumental both defensively and offensively. His composure on the ball, aerial ability, and decisive goal made him the standout performer.
Benjamin Nygren: The young Swede provided creativity, pace, and finishing ability. His second-half goal demonstrated not just technical skill but also mental sharpness under pressure.
Callum McGregor: As the midfield metronome, McGregor dictated tempo, delivered incisive passes, and orchestrated transitions between defense and attack.
Jonjoe Kenny and Josip Juranović: Their width and defensive discipline were vital. Both contributed to suppressing Sturm Graz’s attacking threats while supporting forward movements effectively.
For Sturm Graz, Arase and Ranftl were bright spots, showing skill and persistence. Yet, the visitors were unable to convert sustained possession into decisive chances after the equalizer.