Ange Postecoglou insists he never fears the worst as he delivered a 'really proud' message to his Celtic stars.
The Hoops rounded off their Champions League campaign with a lesson on playing at the very top level by Champions League holders Real Madrid as they hit the Scottish champions for five at the Bernabeu. VAR played its part early on with Los Blancos awarded two penalties inside the opening 20 minutes with Moritz Jenz and Matt O'Riley punished for handball. Luka Modric and Rodrygo made no mistake from 12-yards as Joe Hart was given no chance with either effort.
Celtic then had a spot-kick opportunity of their own but Josip Juranovic's effort was saved by Thibaut Courtois. The visitors created a number of other opportunities but couldn't make the big chances count with Real punishing them with three further goals through Marco Asensio, Vinicius JR and Federico Valverde as the La Liga giants landed top spot in the group. Jota appeared from the bench - like he did on Sunday against Livingston - and he gave the away fans something to cheer about as he scored a stunning free-kick in a moment he will never forget.
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Speaking to BT Sport, Postecoglou said: "Firstly they are a fantastic football team and have real quality. From our perspective we didn't start the game too badly. They got the two penalties but we hung in there and at 2-0 we got our penalty. 2-1 maybe doesn't change the outcome but gives us belief and puts them under pressure but I guess it has been the story of our campaign. Ultimately they were too good for us. They are a good side.
"I never fear the worst. We are still trying to play and I am really proud of our players. We've lost 5-1 and we understand that against a fantastic football team but the players never stop trying to play. We created I don't know how many chances.
"Courtois was outstanding. I don't fear anything with this group of players. We've lost to a very good football team but I am still proud of their efforts.
"I've said before the key for us is to be here every year. I've no doubt the players will grow from this. Matt O'Riley, Reo Hatate amongst others. They are growing every game. This is their sixth game at this level of football. I've no doubt they will be better footballers quite a few of our guys. We will learn from it but only if we qualify again."
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