Celtic's Late Goal Keeps Champions League Hopes Alive Against Bayern Munich
Celtic suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to Bayern Munich in the first leg of their Champions League knockout play-off tie at Celtic Park, but a late goal from Daizen Maeda has given the Scottish side a glimmer of hope ahead of next week’s return leg in Munich.
Bayern took control of the match with goals either side of halftime. Michael Olise broke the deadlock in the 45th minute with a stunning strike, curling the ball into the top corner after a deep cross from Dayot Upamecano. Harry Kane doubled the lead just four minutes into the second half, volleying in unmarked at the far post from a Joshua Kimmich corner. The goal marked Kane’s 60th in UEFA club competitions, further cementing his status as one of Europe’s most prolific strikers.
Celtic, however, refused to capitulate. Daizen Maeda reignited their hopes in the 79th minute, nodding in from close range after a corner caused chaos in Bayern’s box. The hosts pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages, with Manuel Neuer forced into a crucial save in stoppage time to preserve Bayern’s lead. Despite the late pressure, the German side held on to secure a vital advantage heading into the second leg.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers acknowledged his side’s passive moments but remained optimistic about their chances. “We’ve shown we can play football and be a threat. We’re still right in the tie,” he said, praising his team’s resilience. Meanwhile, Kane admitted Bayern had to withstand a late surge from Celtic, describing Parkhead as a “difficult place to come.”
The second leg will take place at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday, 18 February, with Celtic needing to overturn the deficit to progress to the round of 16. While the task is daunting, Maeda’s late goal ensures the tie remains alive, offering Celtic a slim chance to cause an upset in Munich.
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