Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has praised his side’s intensity, hunger, and “greed” after the Scottish champions secured an emphatic 5-1 victory over Slovan Bratislava in the Champions League on Wednesday. The four-goal triumph, Celtic’s largest margin of victory in the Champions League group stages, demonstrated the team’s prowess and mentality under Rodgers’ guidance.
The win not only marked a milestone in Celtic’s Champions League journey but also echoed the club’s rich history of success in European competitions. While the 5-1 scoreline was their biggest in the modern Champions League era, Celtic’s record for their largest European victory remains a 9-0 win over Finnish side KPV in the 1970 European Cup.
Rodgers, who previously managed Liverpool and Leicester City, was full of praise for his players following the dominant display. Speaking to Celtic TV after the match, Rodgers highlighted the team’s mental strength and collective effort. “To get that scoreline at this level is a massive testament to the players and their mentality,” he said. “Just the intensity, the hunger, and the greed of the team, and then the quality for the goals was absolutely superb, so it was a great night for everyone.”
Celtic’s performance was nothing short of comprehensive. From the opening whistle, the Glasgow-based side pressed relentlessly, creating several early chances that kept Slovan Bratislava under pressure. It wasn’t long before the goals started flowing, with Celtic displaying clinical finishing and intelligent movement both on and off the ball. Each goal was a testament to the quality that Rodgers alluded to, with sharp interplay and precision in the final third.
The atmosphere at Celtic Park was electric, with the home crowd in full voice throughout the match. Rodgers was quick to acknowledge the supporters’ contribution, noting how their energy helped lift the team to even greater heights. “The supporters really pushed the team, and I am so proud for everyone,” he said. The manager’s words reflected the deep connection between the club and its passionate fan base, a relationship that has played a key role in Celtic’s domestic and European successes over the years.
Celtic’s dominance in the match extended to all areas of the pitch. Defensively, they were organized and resolute, giving Slovan Bratislava few opportunities to test goalkeeper Joe Hart. When the Slovak side did manage to break through, Hart and his defense remained composed, ensuring that Celtic remained in control for the majority of the game.
Rodgers’ side was equally impressive going forward, with their attacking play characterized by swift passing, intelligent movement, and a ruthless edge in front of goal. The blend of experience and youthful talent within the squad was on full display, with each player executing their roles to perfection. The likes of Kyogo Furuhashi, Matt O’Riley, and Reo Hatate were instrumental in the team’s offensive dominance, each contributing to the attacking fluidity that ultimately overwhelmed their Slovak opponents.
The victory further solidifies Celtic’s strong start to the season. The Scottish champions have now won all five of their Scottish Premiership matches, and their dominant performance in Europe suggests that they are capable of competing at the highest level in continental competition as well. Under Rodgers’ leadership, Celtic has continued to build on their domestic success, and Wednesday’s victory was a clear statement of intent in the Champions League.
Despite the comprehensive nature of the win, Rodgers and his team are not resting on their laurels. With Celtic still involved in multiple competitions, the focus now shifts to their upcoming match in the Scottish League Cup quarter-finals, where they will face Falkirk on Sunday. Rodgers will be keen to maintain his side’s momentum as they look to progress in yet another domestic competition.
While Celtic’s European ambitions remain a priority, the club is also determined to add to its domestic trophy cabinet. The Scottish League Cup presents an excellent opportunity for Rodgers’ men to claim early-season silverware, and their current form suggests they are well-positioned to make a deep run in the tournament.
