Celtic managed to claw back a point against a resilient Lazio side in the UEFA Youth League, with the game ending in a 1-1 draw.
The initial stages saw both teams trading possession with neither managing to break the deadlock. Lazio won an early corner following some dominant possession, but Celtic’s defence stood firm, clearing the danger with ease. Not to be outdone, the Hoops replied with Davidson trying to carve out the first opportunity of the match.
By the 11-minute mark, Celtic started to find their rhythm, with Davidson almost being set up by Carse, if not for a slightly heavy pass. A momentary lapse at the back gave Lazio a chance on the counter, but goalkeeper McLean was up to the task, making a crucial save to keep things level.
The Celts continued their dominance with Davidson and Carse combining well in the 14th minute. However, the Lazio goalkeeper thwarted their efforts, holding onto a dangerous cross.
The middle phase of the first half was largely dictated by Celtic. Despite their high pressing and good ball possession, they couldn’t find the breakthrough they were looking for. Davidson, in particular, seemed keen to make a difference, constantly looking to create chances from the wings.
But, as the first half was drawing to a close, it was Lazio who found the back of the net, taking the lead just before the interval.
Into the second half, Celtic came out with a renewed sense of urgency. Cummings and Ure combined to create a golden opportunity, but the latter’s effort just sailed over the bar. The Celtic defence continued to look solid, with McLean particularly impressive, tipping a dangerous Lazio free kick over the bar in the 58th minute.
As the clock ticked on, Celtic seemed more desperate to find an equaliser. Quinn, having come on as a substitute, made his presence felt, attempting to set up Davidson for the equaliser, but it just wasn’t to be.
The match looked all but decided, but football is a game full of surprises. With the game spilling into stoppage time, Bruno Davidson was brought down inside the Lazio box. Up stepped Mackenzie Carse, who kept his cool to slot home the penalty, ensuring Celtic earned a well-deserved point.
Mackenzie Carse's stoppage time spot-kick seals the Hoops' first #UYL point of the season ⚽️🎯#CelticLazio | #COYBIG🍀 pic.twitter.com/2kFCd7Ma5j
— Celtic FC B (@CelticFCB) October 4, 2023
Final Score: Celtic 1-1 Lazio
