Celtic Extend Unbeaten Champions League Run With a Valuable Draw Against Dinamo Zagreb
Celtic continued their impressive form in the UEFA Champions League, stretching their unbeaten run to four matches after earning a crucial away point against Dinamo Zagreb. The result leaves Brendan Rodgers’ side well-placed to progress to the knockout stages, with nine points accumulated and two decisive fixtures remaining—a home clash against Young Boys in January followed by a trip to Aston Villa.
A Missed Opportunity for a Breakthrough Victory
Despite their solid form, Celtic’s long wait for an away win in Europe’s premier competition continues, with their last victory on the road dating back seven years against Anderlecht under Rodgers’ tenure. Against a Dinamo side riddled with injuries and struggling for form, Celtic appeared poised to capitalize but ultimately fell short of claiming all three points.
From the outset, Celtic looked confident, controlling possession and dictating play. With nearly 70% possession in the first half, they dictated the tempo but struggled to penetrate Dinamo’s well-organized defensive lines. Their best chance of the half came from Paulo Bernardo’s curling free kick from 20 yards out, which narrowly missed the target. Despite their dominance, Celtic’s attacking efforts lacked the sharpness needed to unlock the Dinamo defense.
Dinamo Resilient Under Pressure
Dinamo Zagreb, dealing with a squad reduced to just 15 fit senior players, approached the match with a pragmatic strategy. They focused on defensive discipline, closing down spaces, and counterattacking when opportunities arose. Twice, forward Sandra Kulenovic found himself in promising positions but squandered both chances, much to the frustration of the home fans.
In the second half, the game opened up as both sides pushed for a breakthrough. Nicolas Kuhn came close for Celtic with a dangerous run and shot, only for Maxime Bernauer to block the attempt. Dinamo responded with Martin Baturina testing Celtic’s defense, but Kasper Schmeichel delivered a standout performance, including a stunning save to deny Marko Pjaca’s late header.
Celtic’s Progression Within Reach
The draw ensures Celtic remain unbeaten in the group stage, a feat they haven’t achieved since 1986. Although the result was positive, there may be some lingering frustration over their inability to convert possession into goals, especially after a dominant first half. The goalless draw, their second of the campaign, highlights the need for more clinical finishing in high-stakes matches.
With a crucial home game against Young Boys looming, Celtic are in control of their destiny. Their focus will now shift to the Scottish League Cup final against Rangers at Hampden Park this weekend, providing an opportunity to carry their European momentum into domestic competition.
Dinamo’s Mixed Fortunes
Dinamo Zagreb entered the match amidst poor form and intense scrutiny from fans following recent performances. Despite their challenges, including a depleted squad, they demonstrated resilience and organization. While they managed to keep Celtic at bay and earn a valuable point, their profligacy in front of goal cost them a chance for victory.
Now sitting on eight points, Dinamo face a daunting task to advance from the group stage, with matches against Arsenal and AC Milan still to come. Nevertheless, their performance against Celtic showcased their ability to compete at this level, even under challenging circumstances.
Key Match Stats
- Celtic’s Unbeaten Run: Celtic (W1 D3) have gone four consecutive Champions League matches without defeat for the first time since October 1986.
- Dinamo’s Home Record vs. Scottish Teams: Dinamo remain unbeaten at home against Scottish opposition (P6 W5 D1), although this was their first home draw against a Scottish side.
- Celtic’s Goalless Draws: This campaign marks the first time Celtic have recorded more than one goalless draw in a Champions League group stage (v Atalanta and Dinamo).
- Dinamo’s Recent Form: Dinamo have lost just one of their last five Champions League matches (W2 D2), a stark improvement from their previous six, where they suffered five losses (D1).
- Celtic’s Experience: Celtic fielded their oldest starting XI in a Champions League match since November 2006, with an average age of 28 years and one day.
Celtic’s unbeaten streak in Europe continues to showcase their evolution under Brendan Rodgers, and their destiny in the Champions League group stage remains firmly in their hands. With momentum on their side, fans will hope for an inspired performance in their remaining fixtures.
