Celtic took a gigantic step toward securing their spot in the Champions League group stage as two sublime strikes from Camilo Duran and a Benjamin Nygren rocket helped clinch a commanding 3-0 win over LASK in the first leg of their play-off tie.
The Colombian attacker found the net either side of half-time after a spectacular finish from Nygren had set Martin O’Neill’s side on their way to an emphatic victory.
Despite the score line, the reigning Austrian champions had chances throughout and even had two first-half goals ruled offside. Their lively strike pairing of Moses Usor and Samuel Adeniran both posed a dangerous threat, but Celtic’s rear-guard stood firm.
New signings Mika Baur, Kasper Hogh and Duran were all given the nod to start by boss Martin O’Neill and the decision paid off, with fellow newcomer Haissem Hassan brought off the bench in the closing stages as he continues to get up to full speed.
Right-back Colby Donovan also impressed as he looked to catch the eye with new Scotland head coach Sebastien Pocognoli watching on from the stands.
The two sides will meet again in the second leg next Tuesday in Linz. While LASK will look to respond in back on home soil, Celtic's polished display and comfortable cushion has increased their qualification prospects after falling short at this stage 12 months ago.
We give each player a mark out of ten for their display.
5. LB: Kieran Tierney (7/10)
Inverted into midfield often in the first-half and was caught out of position on the odd occasion. Teasing delivery in the build-up to Duran's screamer. Fierce second half strike well blocked. Broke forward at every given opportunity. Subbed. | SNS Group
6. CM: Callum McGregor (6/10)
Not his best performance on the European stage. A few sloppy passes and lacked support in midfielder early on as LASK looked to break forward quickly. Second half shot from the edge of the box ricocheted off Hogh and onto the post. | SNS Group
7. CM: Mika Baur (8/10)
Making his Celtic Park debut after an impressive cameo at the weekend, the former Paderborn midfielder excelled. His work rate and understanding with those around him was fantastic. Industrious, tidy in possession and always looked to play the ball forward. Volleyed second half attempt straight at the keeper. Really encouraging 60 minute display. Subbed. | PA
8. CM: Benjamin Nygren (8/10)
Lovely clipped pass through for Duran inside ten minutes. Produced a sumptuous strike with his left foot high to curl high into the top right-hand corner for the opener. Involved in the build-up to Duran's second goal. Was noticeably involved in a lot of positive attacking play again. | SNS Group