Celtic eventually felt the full force of Real Madrid but Hoops fans are relishing the return to the big stage after making Carlo Ancelotti’s side sweat.
Ange Postecoglou’s men went full throttle against the Champions League holders but came up short in the end. But Kenny Wilson, Moffat, said: “Celtic were tremendous and for the best part of an hour gave Madrid a proper test. The class of the European champions shone through in the end and they ran out comfortable winners. The crowd were also tremendous staying and singing right to the end if that was a club across the city it would be empty at 3-0.”
Stephen Mulhern, Dumbarton, said: “Despite the result I enjoyed an entertaining evening at Celtic Park. "If Callum McGregor had opened the scoring a memorable night could have been on the cards. Carlo Ancelotti saying in the media conference that we were worried for this game because what they did against Rangers shows the respect he has for Celtic on the European stage.”
William Hutchinson, Aberdeen, said: “We were terrific holding the European champions for almost hour. We had chances as well but 3-0 was nothing to be ashamed of, and a big cheer for Real Madrid players for applauding the Celtic fans at the end.”
Paul McCormack, Coatbridge, said: “There was enough in that performance to show Celtic are progressing. Real are a class act, but we showed, especially in first half, we can operate at this level.”
Colin McArdle, Lanarkshire, said: “A game of two halves. Celtic missed numerous chances first half and then outplayed in second half by a superb Real Madrid team who will go on to win the Champions League. The highlight of the night was watching the Celtic fans stay in their seats to the final whistle to cheer both Celtic and Real Madrid off the pitch.”
Charles Buchanan, via email, said: “What a first half display. It's great to see Celtic playing exciting attacking football. Callum McGregor’ would not have looked out of place in that Madrid midfield. But in the end we lost a couple of preventable goals as we tired, but well done Bhoys.”
But David Bryce, Troon, said: “Celtic were excellent against Real Madrid for half an hour and then the legs went.
“The goals we lose at this level are truly appalling. Juranovic is a major weak link defensively and Maeda is simply not good enough for Celtic. I thought Hatate and Jenz were superb, however Jota was absolutely anonymous.”
Rangers fans were not too impressed either. Graham Roberts, Edinburgh, said: “Celtic confirmed what we all expected and were outclassed in their Champions League comeback. Celtic and European football just don't go. Never mind, won't be long until they're watching Emmerdale and Coronation Street midweek."
Muir Fulton Ayr, said: “In Europe Celtic are an absolute embarrassment they should do the right thing and stop representing Scotland.”
Jamie Thompson, Clydebank, said: “Celtic put back in their delusional world. It was easy money, I had £100 on Real to win by more than two goals Their fans might have smiles on their faces but not as big as mine.”
Thomas Marshall emailed: “Another thumping in Europe, when will Celtic ever learn? Absolutely embarrassing for Scottish football. Back down to earth with a bang.”
Jimmy Murray, Edinburgh, said: “Celtic matched Madrid in the first but the start of the second half the players were out on their feet. Get in professional coaches. What are they doing in training? Absolute disgrace.”
Bill Waugh, Glasgow, said: “Let’s not kid ourselves on. Number one in Scotland. Number 80 in Europe. Time and time again naive to the extreme Real Madrid or Real Pumphie. We talk a good game and cannot walk a good game.”
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