Martin O’Neill has revealed that Reo Hatate apologised to him at half-time following his red card against Bologna.
Hatate’s dismissal proved a major moment in the game at the Renato Dall’Ara Stadium. Celtic were forced to play for more than an hour with ten men against a Bologna side pushing hard for points.
Despite the setback, Celtic showed resilience and came away with a 2-2 draw. The result keeps their European hopes alive heading into the final game of the league phase.
After the match, O’Neill was asked about Hatate’s reaction to the sending off. The Celtic manager offered insight into what happened both during the break and after the final whistle.
He said: (BBC Sportsound), “He has been (apologetic). He was at half-time, and he was waiting for me at the end of the game.
“I think we have to be a bit careful.
“It looked to me as if the ball was going out of play towards me at the time, and I felt the referee couldn’t wait to get the yellow card up.
“But I would think that anyway.”
The red card changed the shape of the game immediately. What had been a controlled display from Celtic became a long period of defending as Bologna increased the tempo.
Hatate had earlier given Celtic the perfect start with an early goal. His absence left a gap in midfield and placed extra strain on those asked to cover ground and protect space.
O’Neill’s comments highlighted frustration but also understanding. He acknowledged the situation while pointing to the pressure and speed of the moment.
The fact that Hatate apologised was noted within the group. The response on the pitch suggested the incident did not damage unity or focus.
Celtic’s players were pushed deep for much of the second half. Blocks, clearances, and concentration became the priority as Bologna searched for a winner.
The draw was secured through effort rather than comfort. Celtic’s approach shifted to survival, with little margin for error in the closing stages.
O’Neill has spoken often about learning moments. This was one that carried consequence, but also offered a chance for reflection.
The midfielder will now miss the next European fixture through suspension. That places added importance on how Celtic manage the final game of the league phase.
Attention also turns quickly back to domestic football. A demanding league fixture awaits, with recovery now a major focus after such a draining night.
O’Neill’s handling of the situation was calm in tone. He addressed the incident without inflaming it, keeping focus on the collective effort.
For Hatate, the apology marks the end of the immediate moment. The next step will be response when he returns to action.
Celtic’s season has carried its share of pressure points. How the squad responds to them continues to shape outcomes.
The Bologna draw may be remembered for the red card, but also for the way Celtic adapted. Playing so long with ten men required discipline and trust.
With one European game left, Celtic remain in contention. The events in Italy form part of a wider picture rather than the full story.
The focus now shifts to preparation and recovery. Lessons have been taken, apologies made, and attention moves on to what comes next.
