“Who is the LOCAL Champions between Celtic and Rangers?” Where Celtic, Rangers and Hearts sit in European tables – prize money, coefficient boost, chances of progress

Scotland’s European Dream Alive as Celtic, Rangers, and Hearts Shine

Scotland’s hopes of having three representatives in the knockout stages of European football received a significant boost after Celtic, Rangers, and Hearts achieved impressive results in their respective competitions.

Celtic’s Champions League Draw

Celtic’s 0-0 draw against Atalanta in Italy marked a strong defensive performance, earning them four points in the Champions League after three matches. They currently sit 20th in the 36-team table, just behind PSG on goal difference.

Rangers’ Europa League Revival

Rangers’ 4-0 win over FCSB erased the damage from their 4-1 home defeat to Lyon, putting them on six points in the Europa League. They sit 11th in the table with a +3 goal difference, three places outside the automatic qualification spots.

Hearts’ Conference League Success

Hearts continued their excellent start in the Conference League with a 2-0 win over Omonoia, putting them on six points alongside eight other clubs. They currently sit sixth in the 36-team table, behind leaders Chelsea on goal difference.

Prize Money and Coefficient Boost

Celtic earned €700,000 for their draw, taking their earnings to almost €35 million. Rangers added €450,000 to their €12 million European bounty, while Hearts earned €400,000, adding to their €5.5 million prize money.

Scotland’s UEFA Coefficient

Scotland’s coefficient received a welcome boost, with Celtic adding 0.2 points, and Rangers and Hearts each contributing 0.4 points. Scotland now sits 16th in the coefficient rankings, 1.3 points behind Austria.

European Progression Scenarios

Celtic:

• Two more wins from their remaining five fixtures could secure a play-off place.
• Host RB Leipzig, Club Brugge, and Young Boys at Celtic Park.
• Travel to Dinamo Zagreb and Aston Villa.

Rangers:

• Require ten points, or possibly nine, to secure progression.
• Face Olympiacos and Nice away, Tottenham at home, and Manchester United away.
• Conclude the league phase at home to Union Saint-Gilloise.

Hearts:

• Likely require seven points to progress.
• Face Heidenheim, Cercle Brugge, and Copenhagen.
• Conclude the league phase at home to Petrocub.

Expert Analysis

“Celtic’s defensive solidity will be crucial in their Champions League campaign,” said football analyst, Dr. John Kelly.

“Rangers’ victory over FCSB has revitalized their Europa League hopes,” added Dr. Kelly.

“Hearts’ Conference League success is a testament to their squad’s depth and Neil Critchley’s tactics,” said football pundit, Alan Stubbs.

Fan Reaction

“Celtic’s draw against Atalanta is a massive result,” said Celtic fan, Michael O’Rourke.

“Rangers’ win over FCSB shows we can compete with anyone,” added Rangers fan, David Wilson.

“Hearts are proving themselves in Europe,” said Hearts fan, Emma Taylor.

Conclusion

Celtic, Rangers, and Hearts have revitalized Scotland’s European dreams. With prize money and coefficient boosts, Scottish football is on the rise.

Additional sections that could enhance the article:

1. Historical context of Scottish clubs in European competitions.
2. Comparison with other European leagues.
3. Analysis of Celtic, Rangers, and Hearts’ squad dynamics.
4. Expert opinions on Scottish football’s resurgence.
5. Fan expectations and hopes for European progression.
6. Potential impact on Scottish Premiership title race.
7. UEFA coefficient implications for future Scottish clubs.
8. Celtic, Rangers, and Hearts’ remaining European fixtures.
9. Opposition analysis: Atalanta, FCSB, Omonoia, and more.
10. Long-term implications for Scottish football’s European presence.