Celtic’s 1-1 draw with Red Star Belgrade was very much a game of two halves.
After an uneventful first 45, things got more intense in the second with both sides creating and missing chances. There were positives and negatives for Brendan Rodgers.
Kelechi Iheanacho made an instant impact from the bench with his second goal in two, but missed a big opportunity with 20 to play. Regardless, he made his mark, and looks like he could be an integral signing.
Marko Arnautovic equalised after the Hoops weren’t strong enough to deal with a set piece, and despite plenty of action, 1-1 it would finish.
Our winless run away from home in Europe continues, but we’ll absolutely take it in our first Europa League match.
Celtic player ratings vs Red Star BelgradeKasper Schmeichel – 7
Was there when needed with some good saves.
Colby Donovan – 9 (MOTM)
Threatened with his delivery. Physically looked at home. For a 19-year-old who wasn’t in the picture a few weeks ago, a hugely encouraging all-round performance.
Cameron Carter-Vickers – 7
Didn’t do much in possession despite seeing plenty of the ball, but did what he had to defensively, especially in the second half.
Liam Scales – 7
Notably contributed with his penalty box defending. Competitive against Red Star’s attackers.
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Photo by Srdjan Stevanovic – UEFA/UEFA via Getty ImagesKieran Tierney – 7
Did what he could to contribute to the attack, but was often caught in two minds. Encouraging to see him progressing physically.
Callum McGregor – 8
In terms of winning duels and progressing the ball, stepped up in the second half as the tempo raised.
Reo Hatate – 6
Really frustrating given what we know Reo can do in a Celtic shirt. Very little impact on the game.
Benjamin Nygren – 8
Excellent assist for Iheanacho. Nice footwork and movement at times, also forced a good save in the second half.
Yang Hyun-Jun – 6
The side needed more from Yang’s performance. Not really involved.
Sebastian Tounekti – 7
First half was disappointing given what we’ve come to expect from the Tunisian, but he came into it in the second period and showed his qualities again before being replaced.
Daizen Maeda – 5
Not what we needed. Had to provide a different performance as he led the team’s frontline and struggled with his responsibilities.
Celtic substitute match ratings vs Red Star Belgrade Kelechi Iheanacho – 8
Got his goal after coming into an uneventful game. Exactly what you want from your striker. Could’ve had a second. Impressed again with his build-up play.
James Forrest – 7Michel-Ange Balikwisha – 6Arne Engels – 6Marcelo Saracchi – 6