Martin O’Neill makes nostalgic Celtic Park admission after dramatic Besiktas victory
Martin O’Neill admitted the atmosphere at Celtic Park reminded him of the club’s great European nights of the past following a dramatic Europa League victory over Besiktas.
The Hoops finally got their European campaign up and running with a thrilling victory over the Turkish side, producing a spirited second-half performance to secure their first points of the League Phase.
Callum Osmand made an immediate impact from the bench with a stunning strike, while Camilo Duran scored twice as Celtic twice recovered from setbacks to claim a much-needed victory.
Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, O’Neill was full of praise for his players’ resilience and determination.
He said: “It was a fantastic performance, really fantastic in the game. They played some really decent stuff, particularly in the second half — and just when we thought that we were going to drop two points, we come roaring back again to win the game.
“It was a magnificent effort by the team. So much spirit, heart and desire — not only to go and claw their way into the game, but through it. A bit of nervousness because we haven’t a point on the board, and then getting at it.
“Funnily enough, we could’ve scored five or six goals last Sunday. We could’ve done. We could’ve won the game. Falkirk played well, but we peppered the goal and we couldn’t score. We dropped two points against Dundee United here.
“But in terms of European football, there’s no doubt about it; it’s been tough. They have been tough matches, really tough. Tonight was a tough game as well, too. They’re a very fine side.
“But we rose to the occasion tonight. What I think we’ve done is give ourselves a chance. That’s what we have. Because we always still think about trying to qualify — that’s a long way off — but at least we’ve given ourselves a chance.”
He continued: “Tonight, Lotomba, for instance, it was his first start for us. So you’re trying to find out as much as you can about the players, and at some stage or another, I might eventually know my best team!”
And O’Neill reserved special praise for the Celtic supporters, admitting the atmosphere evoked memories of the famous European occasions during his first spell in charge.
He added: “Of course. Mostly, the crowd gave us something. Tonight there was particularly special, a European night again… reminded me of the older days.”
