In a challenging performance for Celtic, defender Gustaf Lagerbielke once again struggled to make a strong impact, while Luis Palma and Yang Hyun-jun also failed to impress. Celtic’s player ratings reflected a team effort that lacked cohesion and the precision required to secure a favorable result.
Defensively, Lagerbielke’s display was particularly concerning. The Swedish centre-back has had inconsistent performances since joining Celtic, and this match was no exception. He appeared vulnerable under pressure, often struggling with positioning and allowing opponents too much space in dangerous areas. His inability to effectively mark his man and provide solid coverage for Joe Hart left Celtic exposed, contributing to a shaky defensive unit that has been a concern for manager Brendan Rodgers this season. Engels, too, faltered as he was drawn out of position, struggled with clearances, and lacked composure in one-on-one situations. The pair’s underwhelming performance gave the opposition multiple opportunities, leading to another disappointing showing at the back.
Upfront, Luis Palma, who had shown glimpses of quality in previous matches, failed to deliver the flair Celtic fans hoped for. The winger struggled to link up with teammates, frequently losing possession and showing limited effectiveness in one-on-one scenarios. His passing lacked the sharpness needed to unlock the opposition’s defense, and his decision-making in the final third left much to be desired. This was a match where Palma’s skills could have been crucial in breaking down the defense, yet he was unable to leave a mark, finishing the game with little influence.
Similarly, Yang Hyun-jun was unable to create any real threats in the attack. The South Korean forward appeared disconnected from the midfield and struggled to get involved meaningfully. His passing was inconsistent, and his movement off the ball didn’t open up the space Celtic needed. Yang’s lack of impact on the game was evident, and as a result, Celtic’s offense seemed disjointed and lacked the fluidity and creativity usually associated with their play.
Overall, Celtic’s performance highlighted the ongoing issues in defense and the need for more chemistry in the attacking third. Lagerbielke, Palma, and Yang will need to improve in their respective roles if Celtic is to maintain their strong start in the league and succeed in European competitions. For now, Rodgers will be searching for ways to get more consistent performances from these key players.
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