The Champions League draw has been made, and Celtic find themselves in a group with Atletico Madrid, Feyenoord, and Lazio. While the Hoops faithful are buzzing with anticipation, it seems the Spanish press has already written off Celtic’s chances in the competition.
According to Marca.com, “Atletico were drawn with the weakest opponent from Pot 1 in Feyenoord. Celtic are an opponent that are far from the level of Diego Simeone’s team and only Lazio seem to be the team that can compete with the red and white team in Group E.” This sentiment is echoed by Football Espana, which suggests that “Lazio and Feyenoord will especially be looking to challenge Atletico,” but makes no mention of Celtic as a serious contender.
Even ABC.es seems to treat Celtic Park’s famous atmosphere as more of an experience than a threat, stating, “Celtic, and their spectacular home atmosphere, is another reason to get excited about the matches in this group.”
While it’s true that Celtic’s European performances in recent years haven’t been up to the standards of the club’s illustrious history, it’s also true that Celtic Park remains one of the most intimidating venues in European football. The Spanish media might be looking forward to the atmosphere, but they’re treating it like a tourist attraction rather than a cauldron that has consumed far better teams than Atletico Madrid in the past. It’s Celtic’s job to get that fear back.
It’s worth noting that Atletico’s Chairman Enrique Cerezo did offer a word of caution, stating to ABC.es, “Last year we thought we had a good draw and they threw us out at the first opportunity. This year we have had good teams, champions of their countries and we will fight to be first. It is true that when we have death groups we have always done better.”
So, while the Spanish media might be underestimating Celtic, it seems that Atletico’s own chairman is well aware of the pitfalls of complacency. And let’s not forget, Celtic have a history of upsetting the odds.
The Spanish press might consider Celtic to be the biggest of underdogs, but that’s a role the Hoops have relished in the past. And if Atletico Madrid walk into Celtic Park treating it as a mere experience rather than a challenge, then who knows. But there’s a lot of work to be done.
