Sport Nation 2Celtic’s recent 7-1 loss to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League has left fans frustrated and questioning Brendan Rodgers’ tactical approach. Going into the game, there was cautious optimism among supporters that the Scottish champions could come away with a positive result, especially considering Celtic’s dominant domestic form, where they had won all nine of their league matches without conceding a single goal. Borussia Dortmund, managed by Nuri Sahin, had also shown signs of defensive vulnerability in the build-up to the match, further fueling hopes of an upset.
However, those hopes were dashed in spectacular fashion, as Dortmund put seven past Celtic in a nightmarish performance for the Hoops. The loss was Celtic’s heaviest defeat in Europe since last season’s 6-0 thrashing at the hands of Atletico Madrid. Despite this being one of the most embarrassing defeats in the club’s recent European history, it appears that Rodgers is not inclined to make any significant tactical changes moving forward.
Fans React to Rodgers’ Comments
In the wake of the defeat, Brendan Rodgers’ post-match comments have sparked outrage among sections of the Celtic fanbase. Rodgers seemed to downplay the need for a tactical rethink, suggesting that his team’s style of play in Europe should remain the same despite the magnitude of the defeat. This has not gone down well with many fans, who took to social media to voice their displeasure.
One fan, @olegtoshev1, criticized the lack of defensive quality in the squad, stating: “I will not offer Taylor a new contract, I will not buy defenders from Sheffield, I will not buy reserves from relegation teams, I will not spend money on players who can only play in domestic games.” This reflects a broader sentiment that Celtic’s recruitment has not been strong enough to compete at the highest level of European football.
Another supporter, @wc2731, expressed frustration with the team’s approach in these big matches, tweeting: “What makes him think we can go toe to toe with these teams? We have to go there with a defensive mindset and if we get them on the break great.” This sentiment highlights the gap in quality between Celtic and Europe’s elite clubs and calls for a more pragmatic approach when facing top-tier opponents like Borussia Dortmund.
Martin Rodgers, another fan, shared similar concerns, stating: “You would like to think this result would be humbling for him, but nothing has really changed since the last time he was here. Still the bold arrogance. You can’t play the same way against top opposition as in the league and expect to get the same results.” This tweet refers to Rodgers’ previous tenure at the club, suggesting that he has failed to learn from past mistakes when it comes to Champions League football.
Rodgers’ Track Record in Europe Under Scrutiny
Brendan Rodgers’ European credentials have often been called into question throughout his managerial career. While he has achieved great success domestically, both during his first spell at Celtic and upon his return, his struggles on the European stage are well-documented. Even during his time at Liverpool, Rodgers failed to make a significant impact in the Champions League, and that pattern has seemingly continued at Celtic.
Rodgers’ style of play, which emphasizes possession-based football and high pressing, has been hugely successful in Scotland. However, fans and pundits alike have pointed out that this approach may not be suitable against Europe’s top sides, who possess the quality to exploit Celtic’s defensive frailties. Many believe that a more cautious, defensive approach is needed in Europe, especially against teams like Borussia Dortmund who have the firepower to punish any mistakes.
Celtic have experienced success in the past against European giants by adopting a more pragmatic approach. Memorable victories over the likes of Barcelona, Manchester United, and AC Milan were not achieved by trying to dominate possession or play expansive football. Instead, Celtic soaked up pressure, defended resolutely, and took their chances when they came. Fans are now calling for a return to this style of play in Europe, especially against higher-caliber opponents.
Lessons from Underdog Teams in the Champions League
In recent years, several underdog teams have made deep runs in the Champions League by adopting a pragmatic approach. Clubs like Atletico Madrid, Ajax, and even Leicester City have shown that it is possible to compete with Europe’s elite through disciplined, organized, and defensively sound football. These teams have not tried to outplay their opponents in every area of the pitch but have instead focused on their strengths while minimizing their weaknesses.
Many Celtic fans believe that the club should take inspiration from these success stories. Rather than attempting to go toe-to-toe with teams like Borussia Dortmund, a more defensive setup, designed to frustrate the opposition and hit them on the counterattack, might yield better results. The Hoops’ history of upsetting big teams in Europe has often come through this kind of game plan, and there is a growing sense that Brendan Rodgers needs to adopt a similar strategy if Celtic are to avoid more heavy defeats in Europe.
Moving Forward: What Needs to Change?
While Brendan Rodgers has undoubtedly achieved great things at Celtic, his inability to find the right formula in Europe is a major concern for both the club and its fans. The 7-1 loss to Borussia Dortmund is not just a one-off result but part of a worrying trend of heavy defeats against top European sides. If Celtic are to progress and make a meaningful impact in the Champions League, significant changes need to be made.
First and foremost, the team’s defensive issues must be addressed. While Celtic have been rock solid domestically, their defensive performances in Europe have been a major weakness. Strengthening the backline, particularly with players who have experience at the highest level, should be a priority in future transfer windows.
Secondly, Rodgers needs to show greater tactical flexibility. His commitment to an attacking, possession-based style of play has brought success in Scotland, but in Europe, it has often left the team exposed. Adopting a more pragmatic approach, especially against stronger opposition, could help Celtic become more competitive on the European stage.
Finally, Celtic’s mentality needs to change. Too often, the team has appeared overawed by the occasion when facing Europe’s elite. A more resilient, determined mindset is required if Celtic are to stand a chance of progressing beyond the group stages of the Champions League in future seasons.
Conclusion
Celtic’s 7-1 defeat to Borussia Dortmund was a sobering reminder of the gulf in quality between the Scottish champions and Europe’s top clubs. While Brendan Rodgers has enjoyed domestic success since returning to Celtic, his European record remains underwhelming, and many fans are now calling for a change in approach. If Celtic are to avoid more heavy defeats in Europe, Rodgers will need to adopt a more pragmatic game plan and strengthen his squad, particularly in defense. Only then can Celtic hope to compete with the best that Europe has to offer.
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