Celtic’s Champions League journey concluded in Munich, but fans have every reason to be proud of the progress the team has shown this season.
As Brendan Rodgers’ squad now shifts focus to securing a domestic Treble, they can observe how the remaining teams in Europe’s premier competition perform. Naturally, there is particular interest in clubs that Celtic encountered during the league phase and knockout rounds—one of them being Unai Emery’s Aston Villa.
Celtic faced Villa on January 29 in their final league-phase match after securing a playoff spot. It was an open contest in the Midlands, but the Hoops fell to a 4-2 defeat. Another notable opponent was Club Brugge, whom Celtic held to a draw at home, thanks to a spectacular goal from Daizen Maeda.
Now, Villa and Brugge prepare for the second leg of their Champions League round of 16 clash on Wednesday. Ahead of the match, Unai Emery referenced Celtic in his pre-game press conference.
Emery’s Message to Aston Villa Before Facing Club Brugge
During their visit to Villa Park, Celtic endured a tough start, conceding twice within the first five minutes. It looked like a repeat of their difficult night in Dortmund was on the horizon.
However, the Scottish champions demonstrated their significant progress in the competition, highlighted by Adam Idah’s crucial comeback goals.
Emery’s mention of Celtic serves as a reminder to his Villa players not to underestimate their opponents, reinforcing the unpredictable nature of the Champions League.
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