Celtic’s head coach, Elena Sadiku, has expressed her aspirations for the club to make a mark in women’s football by qualifying for the group stage of the UEFA Women’s Champions League for the first time. With a 1-0 advantage going into the second leg of their tie against Vorskla Poltava, the pressure is on to maintain this lead and secure a spot among Europe’s elite.
Since her appointment in January 2023, Sadiku has successfully guided Celtic to their inaugural SWPL title last season. Now, she is focused on taking the next step in the club’s journey. “Achieving this would mean a lot; we would be creating history once again,” Sadiku remarked. She emphasized her commitment to elevating Celtic’s profile on the international stage and sees this qualification as a pivotal moment in the club’s development.
Reflecting on the progress the club has made, Sadiku stated, “The transformation from where the club was to where it is now is evident, and people can see the changes taking shape with strong support from the club.” She understands that success takes time and is dedicated to the long-term vision for Celtic’s women’s team. “This is a project that requires patience, and we are committed to working hard to reach our goals,” she added.
Midfielder Natalie Ross, who has been with Celtic since 2016, echoed Sadiku’s sentiments and expressed excitement for the upcoming match. “We are thrilled about what’s at stake and feel confident following our strong performance last Sunday,” she commented. However, Ross also cautioned against underestimating their opponents, acknowledging Vorskla Poltava’s quality.
As anticipation builds, the group-stage draw for the Champions League is set for September 27, with matches commencing shortly after. Should Celtic succeed in qualifying, it would not only mark a significant achievement for the team but also place them among the top 16 clubs in Europe, a prospect that Sadiku finds exhilarating.