Celtic travelled to Norway to take on Rosenborg, and Brendan Rodgers’ men secured a 1-0 win to stay on track for a spot in the knockout phase of the Europa League. Don’t let the scoreline fool you as the game was far from a close encounter.
The Hoops started strongly and dominated the proceedings for the most parts. Rosenborg were finding it hard to get out of their half, and Celtic were creating waves of attack. There weren’t many clear cut chances, but it only seemed like a matter of time before Celtic took the lead. Scott Sinclair opened the scoring just before halftime after a pinpoint cross from James Forrest.
Rosenborg brought more in terms of attack in the second half, but they lacked the quality to penetrate Celtic’s backline. Most of their threat was coming aerially, and the Celtic defenders saw the game through without much trouble.
Here is how the Bhoys fared in this away tie.
Craig Gordon 6
Was a spectator for the most parts of the game and had a comfortable night in goal.
Kieran Tierney 6.5
He was a constant threat while going forward. Wasn’t troubled much at the back. Could have done better with his final ball in and around the box.
Dedryck Boyata 7
Rosenborg hardly went past him, and the Belgian was dominant in the air. Recycled the ball well to build up attacks.
Filip Benkovic 7
Had a comfortable night as he hardly seemed to break into a sweat. Another strong performance from the Croatian overall.
Mikael Lustig 6.5
Has come under a bit of criticism of late but tonight was an assured performance from the Swede in the right-back role. Wasn’t tested much defensively.
Callum McGregor 6.5
Kept things moving in midfield. Showed good energy and often dropped deep to get on the ball.
Ryan Christie 6
Wasn’t at his best tonight but did enough as he worked hard.
Tom Rogic 7
The Australian pulled strings for the most parts and troubled the opposition goalkeeper with some smart shots around the penalty box.
Scott Sinclair 6.5
Was average at best but scored the goal which turned out to be the winner. Was at the right place at the back post and scored through a simple header. Often failed to pick the right pass in the final third.
James Forrest 8
The Scotsman is playing the best football of his career right now and looked the most threatening player in the attacking half. Assisted the only goal of the game with an accurate cross.
Odsonne Edouard 6
Threatened on some occasions, but like most of the attacking players on the night, was not able to take his chance in the final third or come up with the right pass.
Substitutes
Leigh Griffiths N/A
Wasn’t involved much in the game.
Cristian Gamboa 6
Did a decent job and provided a fresh pair of legs at the back.
Scott Brown 6
Came back after an injury and spent some minutes on the pitch to see out the victory.
