“Rangers are not HAPPPY about this” World media reacts as Celtic leave bitter taste in mouth of cursed Atalanta and Rodgers tells story of redemption

Celtic’s Champions League Heroics: Rodgers’ Masterclass Leaves Atalanta Frustrated

Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic side pulled off a stunning result in Bergamo, holding Atalanta to a 0-0 draw in the Champions League. The Scottish champions, still reeling from their 7-1 thrashing at Dortmund’s hands, executed a defensive masterclass to frustrate the Europa League holders.

Italian Media Reacts

Tuttomercato described the match as “tough” and “intense,” with Atalanta creating several scoring opportunities. However, Celtic’s “old-school” defensive solidity, spearheaded by Kasper Schmeichel, Auston Trusty, and Liam Scales, proved impenetrable.

Bergamo & Sport lamented Atalanta’s inability to capitalize on their dominance, stating, “Twenty-two total shots were not enough… Celtic barricaded themselves in front of Schmeichel.” The Italian side’s performance was deemed “of absolute European level,” but lacking the “spark” to secure victory.

L’Equipe praised Celtic’s resilience, noting they “put up a heroic defence against the Italian waves.” Schmeichel’s decisive saves and the team’s compact defense thwarted Atalanta’s attacks.

Kicker echoed similar sentiments, stating Atalanta “clearly dominated” but struggled to break down Celtic’s defense.

European Press Praises Celtic’s Resurgence

A Bola highlighted Atalanta’s Portuguese players, but ultimately, the Italians’ inability to score proved costly.

The Guardian lauded Celtic’s response to their Dortmund debacle, stating Rodgers’ side showed “defensive organisation, an unwillingness to make soft mistakes, and composure on the ball.” The draw marked a “story of redemption” for Rodgers and his team.

Rodgers’ Tactical Masterclass

The Celtic manager’s game plan was widely praised. By deploying a defensive setup, Rodgers nullified Atalanta’s attacking threats and caught the Italians off guard.

Celtic’s players deserve credit for their discipline and work rate. Schmeichel’s exceptional goalkeeping and the backline’s solidity laid the foundation for the result.

Implications for Celtic’s Champions League Campaign

This draw revitalizes Celtic’s hopes of progressing to the knockout stages. With Atalanta and Dortmund still to play, Rodgers’ side will look to capitalize on their newfound momentum.

Atalanta’s Disappointment

The Italian side’s failure to win will be seen as a missed opportunity. Their dominance in possession and chances created should have yielded more.

Mario Pasalic and Mateo Retegui’s missed chances will be rued, while Schmeichel’s saves will be remembered as pivotal.

Conclusion

Celtic’s Bergamo heroics demonstrate their capacity for resilience and adaptability. Rodgers’ tactical acumen and his players’ execution have reignited their Champions League ambitions.

As the competition unfolds, Celtic will seek to build on this result. Atalanta, meanwhile, must regroup and rediscover their winning formula.

Additional points to consider:

1. Rodgers’ post-match comments and his satisfaction with the result
2. Atalanta’s missed opportunities and their implications
3. Celtic’s defensive strategy and its effectiveness
4. The impact of this result on Celtic’s Champions League prospects
5. Atalanta’s response to this setback and their path forward

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