Celtic were beaten 2-1 by Celta Vigo at Celtic Park on 22 October 2026, a match that saw the Scottish champions lose their third successive Europa League game without a point. The defeat came after a 1-0 advantage that was overturned in the second half.
Mika Baur gave Celtic the opening goal in the 47th minute, capitalising on a deflected cross from Haissem Hassan. The early lead was a welcome relief after a 4-1 loss to Benfica and a 3-1 defeat to Ferencvaros in the previous two Europa League fixtures.
In the 63rd minute, Liam Scales struck the crossbar with a header that would have extended the lead to 2-0. The miss left Celtic vulnerable to a quick response from the Spanish side.
Javi Rodriguez equalised five minutes later with a header from a free‑kick, and then scored the winner in the 71st minute from outside the box. The two goals were scored within three minutes, a burst that left Celtic scrambling to defend.
The match also featured a controversial moment when Callum Osmond went down after a push from Javi Rueda. The incident occurred just outside the penalty area and the referee awarded a free‑kick, which led to the equaliser. Celtic fans had demanded a penalty for the fall.
Manager Martin O'Neill expressed disappointment after the game. "Tonight is disappointing because I thought that we could win the game," he said. He added, "It was a tough evening, but I can't ask for any more from the players." He also noted, "we conceded a goal from a set piece."
Celtic now face Hibernian at Easter Road on 25 October, with a 12pm kick‑off. The club still has seven remaining Europa League league‑phase matches to play, and will look to regain form in the Scottish Premiership after a 7-1 victory over Hearts earlier this season.
