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Martin O’Neill is right about key Celtic improvement in miserable Benfica defeat

Martin O'Neill managed to find one positive from Celtic's heavy defeat to Benfica in the Europa League.

By Jamie Kemble · The Celtic Bhoys

Published: Friday, 16 October 2026 at 8:45 AM

Key Things to Know

Writer Jamie Kemble agrees with Martin O'Neill that Celtic showed improved fighting spirit despite losing 4-1 to Benfica.
Celtic suffered a 4-1 Europa League defeat in Lisbon after falling 3-0 behind before half-time.
Camilo Duran scored for Celtic in the second half, while Kasper Hogh and Duran both hit the woodwork.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Writer Jamie Kemble agrees with Martin O'Neill that Celtic showed notable spirit and chance creation despite a 4-1 Europa League defeat to Benfica in Lisbon. Celtic fell behind 3-0 in the first half after conceding an early penalty before Camilo Duran scored a second-half goal.

O'Neill praised Celtic's second-half response and the impact of substitutes, expressing confidence in reaching the knockout stages. Kemble highlights that unlike past European collapses, Celtic continued attacking, with Kasper Hogh and Duran both hitting the woodwork.

Read the full article on The Celtic Bhoys

Martin O’Neill is right about key Celtic improvement in miserable Benfica defeat

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