OneFootball
Richard Buxton·20 de agosto de 2025
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Richard Buxton·20 de agosto de 2025
In a tightly contested UEFA Champions League clash at Celtic Park, Celtic and Kairat played out a goalless draw.
Despite dominating possession with 74.5%, Celtic couldn't break down a resilient Kairat defence. Both teams had their chances, but neither could find the back of the net. Injuries and substitutions disrupted the flow, with Celtic's Alistair Johnston and Kairat's Aleksandr Zarutskiy both leaving the pitch. The result leaves everything to play for in the return leg.
Aleksandr Zarutskiy was the standout performer, making crucial saves to keep Celtic at bay and ensuring Kairat left Glasgow with a valuable draw.
Celtic had a staggering 15 corners compared to Kairat's 3, yet failed to convert any into goals.
Celtic's inability to capitalise on their overwhelming possession highlighted a need for sharper finishing. Kairat's defensive discipline was commendable, with Zarutskiy and his backline standing firm under pressure. The match was a tactical chess game, with both managers making strategic substitutions to try and tip the balance. The atmosphere at Celtic Park was electric, but the home fans were left frustrated as their team couldn't deliver the winning goal.
This draw leaves both teams with everything to play for in the second leg, as they remain level in the UEFA Champions League standings. With no goals scored, the tie is finely poised, and both teams will be eager to secure a win in the return fixture.
Celtic will turn their attention to domestic matters as they face Livingston in the Scottish Premiership, aiming to maintain their perfect start. Meanwhile, Kairat will prepare for the return leg at home, hoping to leverage their home advantage in Almaty.
This was the first-ever meeting between Celtic and Kairat, setting the stage for an intriguing rivalry as they head into the second leg.
📸 Ian MacNicol - 2025 Getty Images