Celtic FC have had a history full of unforgettable moments, defining victories and heart stopping drama. Stunning performances have seen the club cement its place in European football as the epitome of Scottish pride and footballing excellence. In this article, we take a look back at some of Celtic FC’s greatest matches, those that have become etched into the hearts of their fans.
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2017 Win Against Aberdeen
Both Celtic FC and Aberdeen FC have a rivalry that goes back a long way, and their matches are some of the most eagerly awaited in Scottish football. The clashes received wide attention not only from fans but also from football enthusiasts throughout the country. Interestingly, in BetZillion’s interview with Darek Rae, a renowned football commentator, Rae shared how his early career took off when he was invited to the BBC HQ in Glasgow.
He was asked to report from an Aberdeen vs. Celtic game, which was a big opportunity for him. This reflects how the rivalry between these two clubs has long been an important fixture in Scottish football, capturing the attention of both fans and professionals alike.
The two sides have had one of the most memorable moments in the 2017 Scottish Cup final. Jonny Hayes gave Aberdeen an early lead but Stuart Armstrong equalised for Celtic.
Tom Rogic, on as a substitute, scored a stunning solo goal in stoppage time as Celtic completed their historic unbeaten domestic season and treble with a 2 1 victory. Celtic’s dominance in Scottish football is defined by this match.
Celtic 1-0 Manchester United, November 2006
In November 2006, Celtic hosted Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League group stage at Parkhead. Celtic needed a win to secure a place in the knockout stages of the competition for the first time in the modern Champions League era.
Shunsuke Nakamura was the hero of the night as his incredible 30 yard free kick stunned the Red Devils. Celtic’s defence, along with Artur Boruc’s crucial late penalty save from Louis Saha, held off a full-strength Manchester United team that couldn’t break through the Scottish champions.
Nakamura’s free kick was one of the most iconic goals in Celtic’s European history. While Celtic were later knocked out by eventual champions AC Milan in the first knockout round, this result against United remains a symbol of Celtic’s ability to shine on the biggest stages.
Celtic 2-1 Barcelona, November 2012
One of the most famous upsets in modern football history was Celtic’s 2-1 win over Barcelona in November 2012. It was against a Barcelona side that was, at the time, one of the greatest teams in the world, and it came on the occasion of Celtic’s 125th anniversary. Celtic stood firm at the back despite the Catalans dominating possession with an incredible 73% and 14 shots on target with almost 1000 passes.
Celtic were kept in the game by a series of breathtaking saves from goalkeeper Fraser Forster. Victor Wanyama headed in the first goal from a corner and Tony Watt finished off in style with a late goal. Lionel Messi pulled one back for Barcelona in stoppage time but Celtic held on for a historic win. This will always be remembered as a match that symbolises Celtic’s unbreakable spirit and tactical discipline.
