Celtic FC’s manager, Brendan Rodgers, recently faced the media following a disappointing 7-1 defeat against Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Champions League. In an interview with TNT Sports, Rodgers expressed his frustration over the outcome and the performance of his team. He acknowledged that the match showcased the harsh realities of elite football, where every mistake can be severely punished. Despite the early setbacks, which saw Celtic go down 4-1 in quick succession, he noted that the players showed resilience in the second half, maintaining possession and taking more risks. However, he conceded that they were ultimately outmatched by a superior team.
Reflecting on the game, Rodgers recognized that some tactical adjustments may have been necessary. He emphasized the need for balance and compactness in their formation but admitted that they frequently lost their shape at crucial moments, allowing Dortmund’s talented players to capitalize on those lapses. The manager hinted that they would review the game to learn from the experience, especially in light of the tactical shortcomings that led to their defeat.
When discussing the reasons for the first-half collapse, Rodgers pointed to their inability to retain possession. He explained that the team needed to slow down and control the game better, rather than rushing to find decisive passes too soon. This impatience resulted in frequent turnovers, which played directly into the hands of Dortmund’s rapid and skillful attack. The manager stressed that such mistakes can be particularly damaging when facing top-tier European opponents.
Celtic fans often wonder about the team’s struggle in European competitions, especially against formidable teams like Barcelona and PSG. Rodgers acknowledged this recurring issue and reaffirmed that while adjustments are necessary, sometimes the quality of the opposition simply overwhelms. He made it clear that Celtic would not revert to a defensive style; instead, they intend to maintain their approach that has been successful domestically, even as they recognize the challenges of performing at that level on the European stage.
Despite the heavy loss, Rodgers remained proud of his players’ efforts in the latter half of the match. He commended their fighting spirit and resilience, which helped them keep pushing forward despite the daunting scoreline. Learning from such defeats is crucial, and Rodgers conveyed the importance of moving forward and not letting one setback define their season. As Celtic looks to improve and grow from this experience, the focus remains on honing their skills and competing effectively at the highest level.