Scottish title-holders Celtic face a setback in the Champions League qualifier as they end the match in a scoreless draw with Kairat.
Celtic and Kairat Play Out 0-0 Draw in Champions League Play-off
In a tightly contested encounter, Scottish champions Celtic were unable to break through against Kazakhstani side Kairat Almaty in the first leg of the Champions League play-off. The match ended in a 0-0 draw, setting up a thrilling second leg to determine whether Celtic can qualify for the 2025-26 league phase.
Celtic dominated possession, spending 35.1% of the match in Kairat's half. They registered 15 corners, 29 total crosses, and 64 final third entries, but their attacking attempts were largely thwarted and smothered by Kairat's disciplined and organized play.
Despite their territorial supremacy, Celtic were unable to convert their chances. James Forrest had a close-range effort clawed onto the post by Aleksandr Zarutskiy, while a goal by Alyaksandar Martynovich was ruled out for offside.
Kairat, on the other hand, contained Celtic during the match. The players with the most interceptions and tackles were Erkin Tapalov with six and Ofri Arad with four for Kairat, who made a game-leading 17 interceptions and 17 tackles during the match.
The second half saw an improvement from Celtic, with a barrage of attacks from the home side. Edmilson's goal-bound header was cleared by Kieran Tierney, but the deadlock remained unbroken.
The match was not without incident, as Alistair Johnston was stretchered off during the game due to an injury.
The second leg of this tantalising tie will take place in Kazakhstan, with Celtic hoping to turn their territorial advantage into goals and secure their place in the Champions League group stage for the 2025-26 season.
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