Late goals send Celtic crashing in Champions League Qualifier

Celtic look set for an early exit from the Champions League after a 3-0 defeat away to Braga in a Champions League qualifying tie, first leg.

The Hoops were outclassed from the outset and Osorio Alan gave the hosts the lead with a first half penalty after Ki Sung-Yeung handled.

Neil Lennon’s team held out until the final fifteen minutes when they conceded two more goals which was no more than Braga deserved.

Uwa Echiejile took advantage of some slack defending adding a second goal from a corner on 76 minutes, then substitute Matheus hit a deflected free-kick over the head of goalkeeper Lucas Zaluska a minute from time.

Braga will feel confident of finishing the job in the second leg at Parkhead next Wednesday.

Champions League third qualifying round, first leg

Venue: Estadio AXA, Braga

Att: 12,295

BRAGA: Felgueiras, Rodriguez, Moises, Cesar, Garcia, Lima, Elderson, Madrid, Salino, Alan, Vandinho

Substitutes: Artur, Barbosa, Keita, Meyong, Silvio, Capela, Matheus.

CELTIC: [4-2-3-1] Zaluska, Mulgrew, Hooiveld, Loovens, Cha, Juarez, Brown (c), Ledley, Ki, Samaras, Maloney

Substitutes: Cervi, Rogne, Crosas, McCourt, Murphy, Forrest, Fortune

Referee: Serge Gumienny (BEL)

Assistant referees: Mark Simons (BEL), Frank Bleyen (BEL)

Fourth official: Laurent Colemonts (BEL)

 
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