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Celtic score three after half-time to complete a dramatic European comeback

Celtic beat Besiktas 3-2 after a goalless first half and five goals after the break. Callum Osmand started the response before Camilo Duran scored twice to secure Celtic's first points of the Europa League campaign.

Celtic score three after half-time to complete a dramatic European comeback

The match changed after Besiktas went ahead

Junior Olaitan scored after his penalty had been saved early in the second half. Celtic responded with a triple substitution, and Osmand equalised with his first touch after Callum McGregor won the ball.

Celtic score three after half-time to complete a dramatic European comeback

The new shape gave Celtic more movement around the penalty area. Duran moved through the centre, while Osmand attacked the space between the full-back and central defender.

Duran answered immediately after the late equaliser

The Colombian forward put Celtic 2-1 ahead, but Orkun Kokcu levelled with a long-range strike in the 85th minute. Less than a minute later, Duran reacted first to Kieran Tierney’s shot and scored the winner.

The game was played on 5 November at Celtic Park. Celtic’s first league-phase victory came from a brave response rather than a comfortable performance.

The bench provided the attacking detail Celtic had lacked

The opening half contained few clear chances. After the changes, Celtic had runners at different depths and could attack both the space behind the defence and the edge of the area.

That variety must continue. The result brings relief, but the team cannot rely on a five-goal second half every week. A faster start would reduce the need for another rescue.

The victory also changes the mood of the campaign. Celtic now have evidence that their attack can respond under pressure, which should make the next European match less anxious.


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