In a thrilling encounter at Bayern Munich’s Allianz Arena, Celtic came heartbreakingly close to pulling off an unforgettable upset, as they pushed the German giants to the brink with a last-minute goal. Although Bayern eventually scraped through, it was clear that Celtic had given them a real scare. Here’s how the players from both teams performed in this nail-biting clash.
Bayern Munich’s Struggles Despite Winning
Manuel Neuer (5.5)
Neuer had little to do in terms of direct shots, but he couldn’t have done much about the goal. His defense left him exposed, and he spent most of the match picking the ball out of the net.
Josip Stanisic (4)
Stanisic was under heavy pressure early on and struggled to cope with Celtic’s attacks. His giveaway led to Celtic’s goal, and his forward runs were largely ineffective.
Dayot Upamecano (5.5)
While Upamecano showed strength in the air, he made a few crucial mistakes, such as a misplaced pass that nearly resulted in a Celtic goal. His pace was tested by Celtic’s quick attackers.
Min-Jae Kim (4.5)
Kim was solid for much of the match, but his slow reaction to a key moment allowed Celtic’s goal to happen. His lack of speed in defense was evident as the game went on.
Raphael Guerreiro (5.5)
Guerreiro worked hard both defensively and offensively, even clearing a shot off the line. However, his efforts weren’t enough to prevent Celtic from causing Bayern problems, and he was substituted shortly after the visitors scored.
Leon Goretzka (5.5)
Goretzka wasted a big chance early in the second half and didn’t seem at his usual commanding self in midfield. His attempts to rally the team were overshadowed by Celtic’s fierce performance.
Joshua Kimmich (7)
Kimmich was the standout in Bayern’s midfield, showing quality passing and composure. He created chances and remained calm under pressure, but ultimately, his team lacked the finishing touches.
Michael Olise (7)
Olise was involved in Bayern’s best moments, including providing a terrific cross that created panic in Celtic’s box. His overall contribution kept Bayern from sinking further into trouble.
Jamal Musiala (5.5)
Musiala’s ability to find space was neutralized by Celtic’s disciplined defense. He struggled to make a real impact and was mostly quiet throughout the match.
Serge Gnabry (3.5)
Gnabry’s performance was subpar, with little impact on the game. He seemed uninterested and struggled to link up with his teammates.
Harry Kane (5)
Kane’s night was a frustrating one. After hitting the crossbar just before half-time, he was substituted at the break due to an injury concern. It was a quiet performance overall for the star forward.
Celtic’s Heroic Effort Almost Pays Off
Kasper Schmeichel (8.5)
Schmeichel was magnificent in goal, making key saves and commanding his defense. He couldn’t do much about the late goal, but he kept his team in the game with his confident play.
Alistair Johnston (9)
Johnston was Celtic’s hero, delivering an outstanding defensive performance. His last-ditch tackles and relentless work rate made him the standout player of the match.
Cameron Carter-Vickers (8)
Carter-Vickers was strong throughout, though he was unlucky not to clear the ball in the final moments that led to Bayern’s last-minute goal. His performance, however, was solid and dependable.
Auston Trusty (8.5)
Trusty provided crucial support on the left side, particularly in dealing with Bayern’s attacks. He was always close to Kane and did his part to stifle Bayern’s forwards.
Jeffrey Schlupp (7.5)
Schlupp had a tough time early on but grew into the match. His defensive work kept Bayern’s key players in check, including Olise, and he stood firm under pressure.
Arne Engels (7)
Engels worked tirelessly in midfield and almost created an opportunity for Maeda in the first half. His distribution was solid, and he helped maintain Celtic’s composure.
Callum McGregor (8)
McGregor was everywhere, breaking up play and making vital passes. His effort to force the first chance of the night showed his leadership, and he kept his midfield ticking.
Reo Hatate (8.5)
Hatate was a bundle of energy, covering every inch of the field. His tireless work rate was infectious, and he was excellent both defensively and offensively.
Nicolas Kuhn (8)
Kuhn was a constant threat, making a key contribution to the goal with calm finishing. He worked relentlessly and was a constant source of danger to Bayern’s defense.
Daizen Maeda (8)
Maeda’s pressing caused Bayern’s defenders real problems, and although he missed an early opportunity, his assist for Kuhn’s goal showed his intelligent play.
Jota (6.5)
Jota had a great early assist for Kuhn, but his influence waned in the second half. He faded a little, but his early contribution was vital to Celtic’s early pressure.
Managerial Impact
Vincent Kompany (4.5)
Kompany’s Bayern struggled throughout the match, with a lack of precision both in attack and defense. Though they narrowly won, they were fortunate not to face a more humiliating result.
Brendan Rodgers (8.5)
Rodgers’ Celtic side put in a brilliant European performance, showing tactical discipline and resilience. They almost secured a shock result but fell just short, yet it was a performance to remember.
A Dramatic Finish
The match ended in heartbreaking fashion for Celtic, who had put up a heroic fight but ultimately lost to Bayern’s late goal. Despite their efforts, Celtic couldn’t hold on for a historic win, and Bayern left the pitch relieved to have avoided embarrassment. Both teams will have much to reflect on after this thrilling encounter.