Celtic v Shakhtar Donetsk; Three Things We Learned

The points were shared in Poland after Celtic failed to capitalise on their chances against Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk.

Celtic took the lead first but failed to extend it despite being presented with many chances. Before long, the home side had pulled themselves level, catching Celtic on the counterattack.

It will be viewed as a frustrating night for the travelling side, who really should be returning to Glasgow with all three points. For Celtic, it’s two points dropped rather than a point gained.

Here are three things we learned as Celtic added their first point to the board in this season’s Champions League.

Abada Should be Ahead of Maeda in the Pecking Order

The difference the introduction of Abada made tonight was night and day to Maeda’s impact. The winger put a few decent balls into the box and looked sharp on the flank. He troubled the opposition’s defence, but, ultimately, his introduction was too late, and he couldn’t contribute to a goal.

It was a mistake not bringing Abada on at halftime, but an even bigger mistake keeping him on the bench until the 85th minute.

We Need to be Selfless

There were some great runs from individuals tonight, but they often ended up running into players or into a space which couldn’t have an impact on the Shakhtar goal. If there were a few more passes, it could’ve led to a player being played through or an opening created. It’s all ‘what ifs’, but there were some great opportunities that some passes could’ve been played, but instead, it was wasted by a player trying to create headlines.

Players have to Step Up

There were loads of chances missed from Celtic tonight, with players failing to capitalise on brilliant opportunities. The Champions League is a big step up from the SPFL and Europa League, and going on tonight’s performance; there are a few players who need to make that step up.