Brendan Rodgers proud of his Celtic side’s monumental efforts as stoppage-time Davies equaliser breaks Bhoys’ hearts.
Brendan Rodgers expressed his “immense pride” at Celtic’s showing at the Allianz Arena.
A stoppage-time equaliser from Alphonso Davies was a huge gut punch to a Celtic side who were just moments away from forcing extra time at the Allianz Arena.
After Nicolas Kühn’s goal in the 63rd minute, Celtic took a 1-0 lead in the second leg of their playoff match and gave their hosts numerous issues. Despite Bayern’s 3-2 aggregate victory, Celtic received the accolades.
“We have to remember this is Bayern Munich,” Rodgers said. “I thought we were outstanding in the game. We played without any fear. In the first half we created really good chances, second half we had to defend a bit more but we knew the game plan. It never looked like we would concede the goal that we did.
“I can only take immense pride from the performance. The guys gave everything. European credibility was always going to be important for us this season. We have learnt some lessons along the way and played some amazing football along the way. This allows us to build. My unswerving plan is to make this a seasoned club at this level. We ran a team that will see themselves as potential finalists very, very close. What the players gave to the game will stay with them.”
Daizen Maeda seemed to be grabbed by Dayot Upamecano’s arm just prior to Bayern’s pivotal goal, but Rodgers chose not to focus too much on the issue. After the match, Celtic’s manager believed Maeda showed signs of “inexperience” by leaving the pitch.
“It doesn’t really matter how you get through,” Kompany said.
“I have to see this in context. We didn’t do that well in the first half, we were better in the second. My players gave me everything.”
Harry Kane was withdrawn at half-time. “I can’t say how long he is going to be out,” Kompany said of the England captain.