Celtic’s 1-1 Champions League draw with Club Brugge had its share of challenges, but Daizen Maeda’s moment of brilliance proved to be the game’s big moment.

Soccer Football – Champions League – Celtic v Club Brugge – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – November 27, 2024 Celtic’s Daizen Maeda scores their first goal past Club Brugge’s Simon Mignolet REUTERS/Russell Cheyne

In a hard-fought contest, where Brendan Rodgers’ side struggled to find their rhythm, especially in the first half, the Japanese forward’s stunning equaliser provided a crucial point and a timely lift for the Parkhead crowd.

BBC pundit and former Celtic man Pat Bonner shared a humorous insight into the crowd’s shifting emotions just before Maeda’s goal. Speaking on BBC Sportsound, Bonner explained how frustration with the winger turned into jubilation within seconds.

“The beautiful thing about it, boys, was that the crowd was so frustrated with him just right before it, but he stopped and turned back and gave the ball back to him.

“Then suddenly he came alive and scored the goal. That was a great way to answer that frustration.

“It was hilarious.”

Maeda’s equaliser came at a vital time for Celtic. Cutting inside from the left, he unleashed a perfectly curled effort into the net, turning groans into cheers and reminding everyone of his ability to produce in key moments.

In a game where Celtic were often on the back foot against Brugge’s relentless pressing and counterattacks, Maeda’s strike stood out as a rare moment of quality.

Celtic now sit comfortably with 8 points after 5 games played.

The data suggests that the Hoops have 97% chance of qualifying for the playoff and are the 7th most overperforming team in the competition.

After the dreadful start to the match, the point was a decent one to walk away with.

 

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