Celtic FC Women have etched their name in history by becoming the first team from Scotland to reach the group stages of the Women’s Champions League. Their remarkable journey included a decisive 2-0 victory against FK Vorskla Poltava on Thursday, culminating in a comprehensive 3-0 aggregate win.
The playoff round took place at Airdrie’s Excelsior Stadium, as both matches were relocated due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Celtic showcased their dominance throughout the contest, with standout performances from Emma Lawton and Murphy Agnew, whose goals in the second leg secured a solid victory for coach Elena Sadiku’s squad.
With their spot now confirmed in the upcoming group stage draw, Celtic will have the opportunity to compete against some of the top clubs in Europe, including powerhouses like Barcelona, Lyon, Bayern Munich, and Chelsea. The draw, scheduled for Friday, September 27, represents a significant milestone in Celtic’s evolving journey on the continental stage.
The team’s historic achievement is a testament to the transformative leadership of manager Elena Sadiku. Since her arrival, she has instilled a winning mentality within the squad, encouraging players to approach matches with confidence rather than an underdog mindset. This shift in perspective has been pivotal in enabling the team to reach this extraordinary level.
Kudos to the players, coaching staff, and everyone involved in this remarkable accomplishment. It marks a significant moment not only for Celtic FC Women but for Scottish football as a whole, highlighting the potential for growth and success on an international platform.