Celtic Help Set Scottish Record in Europe

This week marked a historic first for Scottish clubs in European competition, as three teams—Celtic, Rangers, and Hearts—all kept clean sheets in the same round of matches.

This week was the first time ever that there were 3 Scottish clean sheets in the same week of a group stage/league phase of European ComPetition

— Scotland’s Coefficient (@scotlandscoeff1) October 24, 2024

Celtic’s resilient 0-0 draw away to Atalanta was especially impressive, with Brendan Rodgers’ side displaying defensive discipline against one of Serie A’s most potent attacks, who have netted 18 goals in eight league matches.

Celtic’s backline, led by Liam Scales and Auston Trusty, withstood 22 shots from Atalanta without conceding, defying expectations and proving that grit and organisation can sometimes overcome the odds in European Football.

In contrast, Rangers were fortunate to maintain their clean sheet against FCSB, with a contentious refereeing decision sparing goalkeeper Jack Butland from the blushes.

Butland appeared to lose control of the ball under pressure from David Miculescu, who tapped it into the net after seemingly nicking it off the keeper.

However, the referee awarded a free-kick for a foul on Butland—a decision that pundit Ally McCoist, on TNT Sports, felt was overly generous. Rangers will certainly count themselves lucky as they avoided a potentially costly goal.

Celtic’s defensive heroics in Bergamo stand out among these clean sheets, especially given the volume of Atalanta’s attempts and Celtic’s impressive ability to stymie one of Europe’s most attacking sides.

Scales and Trusty formed a solid partnership at the back, helping Celtic hold firm even as Atalanta intensified their efforts late in the Game. For Celtic fans, the draw felt like a win!