O’Neill’s Defiance Meets Reality as Celtic’s ‘Flat-Track Bullies’ Stumble in Europa League Thrashing

Celtic manager Martin O’Neill remains defiant despite a 4-1 Europa League defeat to Benfica, focusing on a strong second-half display and believing his side can still qualify. However, former player Chris Sutton branded Celtic “flat-track bullies” after a performance marred by first-half errors and defensive vulnerabilities.

The club’s record signing, Kasper Hogh, was substituted at half-time after failing to impress, while Jhon Duran’s improved central performance in the second half highlights a potential selection dilemma for O’Neill.