Celtic roar back to beat Sturm Graz and revive Europa League hopes

Celtic produced a spirited second-half comeback to defeat Sturm Graz 2–1 at Celtic Park, earning their first Europa League win of the season and restoring belief after a difficult run of form.  

The night began in frustrating fashion for Brendan Rodgers’ side.  

Sturm Graz stunned the home crowd in the 15th minute when Tomi Horvat unleashed a superb strike past Joe Hart to give the Austrian side an early lead.  

Celtic’s woes deepened when both Alistair Johnston and Kelechi Iheanacho were forced off with injuries before half-time, leaving Rodgers with limited options on the bench.  

But after the break, the Scottish champions came alive.  

Defender Liam Scales sparked the turnaround in the 61st minute, heading in Callum Donovan’s cross to level the score.  

Just three minutes later, Benji Nygren completed the comeback, finishing neatly from Arne Engels’ assist to make it 2–1.  

The visitors’ frustration boiled over when William Chukwuani was shown a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Callum McGregor in the 70th minute, effectively ending Sturm’s hopes of a comeback.  

Celtic’s dominance was reflected in the numbers.  

Their expected goals (xG) total of 4.24 was the highest recorded by any team in this season’s Europa League. 

Despite missing several chances to extend their lead, the hosts controlled the game’s tempo and showed a renewed sense of purpose that had been missing in recent weeks. 

After the match, Rodgers praised his players’ resilience and leadership.  

He said: “We weren’t quite the Ferrari tonight, but we were a Range Rover Sport, powerful, reliable, and determined. The players showed real character after a tough weekend.”

Former Celtic defender Johan Mjällby hailed the performance as a “real statement.”  

Ex-Scotland striker James McFadden noted the team’s improved intensity and movement. 

The victory lifts Celtic to 21st in the 36-team Europa League standings.  

That position keeps them in contention for the knockout stages.  

With a crucial Premiership clash against Hearts looming, Rodgers will hope this gritty win marks the start of a stronger European campaign.