Chris Sutton’s Brilliant Reaction to Celtic’s Big European Night

Celtic’s 3–1 win over Feyenoord in Rotterdam has sparked a wave of reaction, and former striker Chris Sutton was among the first to hail the result.

It was a night that carried huge significance for Martin O’Neill’s interim spell, not just for the performance itself but for what it means in the wider context of the club’s Europa League campaign. Celtic showed resilience, organisation and a level of composure that has often deserted them on European away nights, turning an early setback into a commanding and deserved victory.

The win also snapped a historical drought. Remarkably, it was Celtic’s first victory on Dutch soil in 24 years, with the last one also coming under Martin O’Neill when his side famously beat Ajax 3–1 in Amsterdam on 8 August 2001. That result became a reference point for a generation, and Wednesday night’s triumph has now earned its own place beside it. For O’Neill to be in charge for both nights, two decades apart, added a layer of romance to an already special occasion.

Sutton, who played in that Ajax win, understands more than most what it takes to deliver a big European performance away from home. His praise carried the weight of someone who has lived these moments, and he made clear just how impressive Celtic’s response has been under O’Neill.

With five wins from six matches across all competitions, the interim boss has overseen a revival that few could have predicted when he stepped back into the dugout last month.

The momentum generated has now placed Celtic in a genuine position to fight for qualification heading into the final matchday. Sutton’s reaction summed up the satisfaction many felt after a difficult spell for the club on and off the pitch, and his comments echoed the wider mood among supporters.

Well done to Martin O’Neill 👏👏 Superb to win 5 out of 6 overall and give Celtic a chance of qualifying now in the Europa. Absolutely superb 🍀

— Chris Sutton (@chris_sutton73) November 27, 2025

The connection to that 2001 night in Amsterdam cannot be ignored, and Sutton’s words indirectly show the magnitude of what Celtic achieved in Rotterdam. Ajax 1–3 Celtic in August 2001 was a demolition job delivered with authority, confidence and belief, qualities O’Neill has clearly reawakened in the current squad. The parallels were striking: an early shock absorbed, a ruthless response, and a Celtic side that refused to wilt against heavily backed opponents.

O’Neill’s return has sparked an intensity and clarity that has transformed Celtic’s approach in a short space of time. The team look fitter, more aggressive and more cohesive, with players stepping up in key moments. Thursday’s win showed not only tactical discipline but also a collective spirit that had been missing. Sutton’s praise reflects this shift, and his words carry an extra punch given his own history with European nights under O’Neill.

The victory has also altered the tone around Celtic’s European season. What once felt like a fading campaign now has life again, and the final matchday brings genuine opportunity rather than formality. Celtic’s task remains difficult, but the table now has a different complexion, and belief has returned.

Twenty-four years after O’Neill masterminded a famous win in the Netherlands, he has delivered another one from the dugout.

The significance extends beyond the scoreline. It was a night that reconnected Celtic with big European moments, reminded supporters of what this team can produce, and kept their Europa League hopes alive.

Where the campaign goes from here is still uncertain, but one thing is clear: under Martin O’Neill, even as interim boss, Celtic have rediscovered their fight at exactly the right time.