Temirlan Anarbekov was in the process of inscribing his name into Celtic infamy, many miles beyond the borders of Europe, after midnight. The 21-year-old novice goalkeeper had made the penalty shootout saves that propelled Kazakhstan’s Kairat Almaty into the Champions League group stage.
Adam Idah, Luke McCowan, and Daizen Maeda each witnessed attempts that were rescued by a keeper who was called upon in an emergency. Kasper Schmeichel, his opponent, could only extend his congratulations as Celtic suffered the consequences of a subpar performance that lasted for 210 goalless minutes, culminating in their inability to maintain composure from the penalty spot.
Now, the Celtic board’s contentious decision to postpone transfer business until Champions League qualification was secured appears to be a prudent one. However, would the introduction of new attacking talent have had an impact? What is the implication of this failing for Brendan Rodgers’s leadership? Celtic would have received four times the qualification revenue and victory bonuses of the Europa League by qualifying for the elite competition. Nevertheless, Kairat is the locus of history and destiny. Astana was the sole team from Kazakhstan to have reached the Champions League group stage a decade ago.
Celtic will not be participating in the 36-team group stage that they participated in last season, which allowed them to advance to the quarterfinal stage. A Rodgers who was “bitterly disappointed” appeared. He reminisced about a year ago, “It is extremely frustrating.” “We demonstrated a glimpse of our capabilities at this level.” However, we have been unable to demonstrate this over the course of these two encounters.
McGregor, the captain, stated, “It was quite scrappy, but we had our moments and would likely prevail on another night. However, we would have to endure the outcome.” “We are extremely disheartened.” We are eager to participate in the Champions League; however, this serves as a reminder that one must maintain a high level of performance on any given evening. If you are not quite at the right place and lack the chances, you will not succeed.
Despite the fact that Rodgers took voluminous notes during the first half, Celtic’s fluency was still lacking in the second. McGregor nearly led Schmeichel to his demise when he volleyed the ball backwards. The ball was punched by the custodian in a state of panic. Jorginho was unable to capitalize on the indirect free kick, as he could only clatter into a mass of hooped shirts.
Extra time and midnight local time were appealing, but Maeda was fortunate enough to receive a golden opportunity. A wealth of options was presented, but the finish lacked any composure, as Anarbekov surged out and McGregor played clear through. An additional 30 minutes of impasse ensued.
A concerted Celtic pressure finally arrived at that location, but Kairat remained resolute. The fork in the road Celtic must now take would be determined by penalties, which are significantly less lucrative. The Kazakh club is on its way to the promised realm of Europe.
A rotation from a weekend victory over Livingston had been permitted by domestic dominance; however, the absence of quality peers is unfavorable for a critical match at the outset of the season. The absence of new talent had prompted concern among Bhoys supporters, 300 of whom had traveled 3,500 miles to Central Asia. New demands to “sack the board” were heard in Almaty. Rangers will engage in an Old Firm derby this Sunday.
Leave a Reply