Celtic write themselves into the history books

Celtic women become the first Scottish Women’s to compete in Champions League group stages

By Ethan Barlow

The Ghirls’ UEFA Women’s Champions League second round qualifier victory over Ukranian champions Vorskla sees Elena Sadiku’s side become the first club to represent Scottish Women’s football in Europe’s most elite club competition.

Second half headers from summer signings Emma Lawton and Shannon McGregor made it a comfortable evening for the champions at the Excelsior Stadium, in Airdrie. Celtic just needed to avoid defeat on the night after a 1-0 first leg victory in the same venue, on Sunday night.

Vorskla rarely threatened Kelsey Daugherty’s goal and apart from a brilliant second half save, the American had quite a straightforward match. Sadiku and her players will most definitely face tougher challenges when the next round’s matches come around.

Fran Alonso’s departure may have looked a disaster at the time but since the Swede’s appointment she has brought Celtic into their most historic period ever, winning their first league title and having the chance to go up against the continent’s ‘big dogs’.

After the match: Sadiku said: “I’m really excited with what’s ahead of us – what an achievement. We put Celtic on the map so I’m very excited with what’s to come!”

Emma Lawton also gave her post-match thoughts after scoring her first goal for the club: “I’m buzzing to be honest – it's such a great achievement for the club and the group of girls.”

On Friday The Ghirls discovered the teams they will face and it’s a stellar lineup - Celtic FC Women have been drawn in Group B of the Champions League alongside Chelsea, Real Madrid and Twente.