Neil Lennon hails Celtic's well-earned Champions League draw at Atalanta - 'One of Brendan Rodgers' best results' - Eurosport

Released on October 23, 2024, at 8:59 PM GMT.

Celtic Stuns Atalanta With 0-0 Draw In Italy

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Neil Lennon praised Celtic's 0-0 tie against Atalanta at the Stadio di Bergamo, calling it one of the finest outcomes of Brendan Rodgers' career.

The Scottish champions put up a strong defensive performance to earn an important draw, keeping their hopes of advancing in the UEFA Champions League intact.

Celtic took away some important insights after suffering a heavy 7-1 defeat to last season's runners-up, Borussia Dortmund, in their second match of the European competition this year.

In northern Italy, their approach was more practical, and at times, they posed a threat during counter-attacks.

"This is incredibly important for both Celtic and Brendan," Lennon remarked after the match on TNT Sports and discovery+. "I believe this is one of the finest results of Brendan's career."

"To secure a result against the Europa League champions after suffering a tough loss is impressive. The team has faced significant criticism."

"They showed this evening that they can achieve a positive outcome even when playing away from home, which was a concern many had about them."

Liam Scales and Auston Trusty played a vital role in the center of Celtic's defense, effectively soaking up and handling Atalanta's offensive efforts.

As the match drew to a close, the Italians struggled to find new strategies, and they were unable to score a late goal.

Celtic currently has four points after playing three matches and still holds onto the hope of advancing to the knockout stage. Their upcoming Champions League matches will be against RB Leipzig and Club Brugge at home.

"I truly believe that Celtic playing at Celtic Park can overcome any opponent," Lennon said. "Securing this point is significant for making it to the last 16, but we need to stay grounded. It's important that we focus on one match at a time, as facing Leipzig at home will be a tough challenge."

I really appreciated seeing a different aspect of Celtic tonight as they put in a strong effort. It was a true team performance. The two center backs were outstanding, and so was Kasper [Schmeichel]. This shows the essential approach needed to secure results on the road in Europe.

Ex-Celtic goalkeeper and TNT Sports analyst Joe Hart was also very impressed.

"Tonight was really important," he remarked. "It was all about showing that what happened three weeks ago was just a fluke."

The first half was exhilarating; it seemed like the ball was in constant motion. I was really impressed by the way Atalanta connected their plays.

[Celtic] had a bit of luck on their side, but I believe their defense was outstanding this evening. It was a fantastic team effort, and everyone contributed to a solid performance from all 16 players.

"All the substitutes came on and put in their effort towards the final minutes of the game. There were a few moments where the opposing team looked threatening on the counterattack, but the main focus for us this evening was simply to secure the win."

Celtic will go up against Motherwell, Dundee, and Aberdeen, who is currently in second place, before they host RB Leipzig in Glasgow in early November, with the match being broadcast live on TNT Sports.

Watch the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League live on TNT Sports and discovery+.

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