Ghirls lose out against Real Madrid Femenino

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Celtic F.C.

·17 October 2024

Ghirls lose out against Real Madrid Femenino

UEFA Women’s Champions League Thursday, October 17, 2024Alfredo Di Stefano Stadium, Madrid

REAL MADRID…4

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(Weir 7, Bruun 72, Moller 80, Caicedo 83 pen)

CELTIC…0

Celtic FC Women suffered defeat in matchday two of the UEFA Women’s Champions League after losing out to Spanish giants Real Madrid.

Despite a spirited performance which saw the score remain 1-0 for the majority of the game, it would ultimately end in a four-goal loss for the Ghirls.

Travelling to the Spanish capital for another historic evening by playing out for a first ever away group stage UWCL match, it was gearing up to be another exciting, yet tough night for Elena Sadiku’s side.

Having lost out in the opening match in the competition, the Hoops were aiming continue making an impression as they had done in the first game against FC Twente.

However, it got off to a disappointing start as the hosts opened the scoring early on through Scotland internationalist Caroline Weir.

The midfielder produced an unstoppable strike from distance which gave Kelsey Daugherty no chance between the sticks, landing in the far top corner.

For much of the first half, the Celts faced pressure with any attack looking to come on the counterattack.

That being said, despite Real Madrid’s dominance, most of the efforts on goal proved comfortable for Daugherty, with the Hoops putting in a solid defensive display.

Having efforts on goal mostly from distance, Sadiku and her squad went into the break just one goal behind.

That pattern would continue for a lot of the second half too. However, as the second 45 minutes went on, the Ghirls seemed to grow in confidence.

After seeing the home side go close to a second by hitting the woodwork, Celtic looked to respond.

Launching a counterattack, full-back Emma Lawton found herself in space advancing towards goal. But her powerful effort just couldn’t find the target.

Moments later, Murphy Agnew looked to catch out the Madrid goalkeeper from range. Her strike went narrowly over the crossbar though.

Ultimately, despite their efforts, the Spanish side were able to double their advantage, with a header from close range once again giving Daugherty no chance.

The Celts continued to push for a response though, and second half substitute Saoirse Noonan almost found the back of the net with a superb turn and strike, seeing the goalkeeper tip her effort round the post.

As the game approached the closing stages, Real were able to add to their two-goal advantage, scoring twice late on with a lofted effort from distance and from the spot.

Although the result did not go their way, it was another performance to be proud from Elena Sadiku’s side, going up against experienced European opposition.

After putting in such a spirited display, the Hoops will be aiming to continue building upon their European performances as they get set to welcome Chelsea to Paradise next month.

However, first is a return to league action this Sunday as we welcome Spartans to New Douglas Park, looking to round off a busy period before the international break with a return to winning ways.