Benjamin Nygren spoke of his pride after scoring his first goals at Celtic Park, while also turning his focus to Tuesday’s crucial Champions League qualifier against Kairat in Kazakhstan.
It was a moment the summer signing had imagined for some time, and he didn’t hide his delight at the moment in front of a home crowd. Nygren’s goals were well taken, but it was his overall impact on the game that drew praise from Brendan Rodgers and supporters alike.
Celtic now face a quick turnaround before the second leg of their fourth-round qualifying tie, with the score still level at 0-0 after a flat first leg in Glasgow. The pressure is on to deliver a performance in Kazakhstan, and Nygren believes the team know exactly what’s required.
With his form building at the right time, the 24-year-old looks likely to play a key role in a tie that could define Celtic’s early season. For Nygren, it’s not just about goals, it’s about chasing the chance to play at the highest level.
He said: (Celtic FC YouTube), “I’ve been seeing this in front of me so many times, to score my first goal at Celtic Park, and to celebrate with all the fans. So, I’m very, very happy.
“First of all, I wanted to come here to show myself, show how good I am and really accelerate in my career.
“I’ve said it many times before that for me playing in the Champions League is one of my biggest dreams. So, yes, I will do everything to get there.
“Now we know we need to go there and win, there’s nothing more about it. We need to come there with a lot of intensity, play fast like we do when we play at our best.”
Nygren’s comments showed how happy he was with his goals, but also how focused he is on what’s coming next. Tuesday’s match means more than just a result to him. It’s a big chance to grow his career and help Celtic get back to the Champions League.
His two goals against Livingston couldn’t have come at a better time. They’ve given both him and the team a lift ahead of one of the biggest games of the season. Nygren’s sharpness in attack could be exactly what Celtic need to break down Kairat after a flat first leg.
The trip to Almaty will be tough and will take real energy, pace and quality in front of goal. Nygren showed all of that at the weekend and looks ready to make an impact in Europe.
For now, Nygren’s done what matters most. He has delivered when it counted and left no doubt that he wants more big European nights in a Celtic shirt.
