Celtic’s momentum under interim boss Martin O’Neill came to a shuddering halt as Europa League leaders Midtjylland taught them a lesson in eight dreadful first-half minutes on a dismal night in Denmark.
The 73-year-old, who had overseen two wins since replacing Brendan Rodgers at the Scottish champions, was under no illusions of the scale of the challenge facing his rejuvenated side at the MCH Arena with the Danes having defeated Nottingham Forrest earlier in the campaign.
No matter how prepared he thought he was, he – along with many others – must have been blown away by the ferocious first half from the hosts.
By the time Martin Erlic nodded in the opener, Midtjylland could have been out of sight, such was their blistering dominance.
Their deserved advantage was doubled within two minutes as Mikel Kruger-Johnsen escaped the attentions of the Celtic defence and sumptuously lifted a stunning finish into the far corner of the net.
Shocked, spooked and then static, Celtic stood like statues as the fantastic Franculino Dju fired in a third before the break.
The second half assignment was one of damage limitation, and though the scoreline suggested that mission was accomplished, it was a mystery how Midtjylland didn’t mount up more goals.
Instead, out of nowhere, Celtic clawed one back as Callum Osmand – who minutes later exited the pitch on a stretcher – was felled by Erlic inside the box with 10 minutes remaining.
Reo Hatate’s smart penalty sparked something within the visiting ranks, but as has been the issue, long before O’Neill’s return, it was too little, too late.
More to follow.