July Memories – Celtic At Wembley | OneFootball

The close season and pre-season periods are often times when football fans turn to nostalgia to fill the gap of not having competitive action. With that in mind, I found myself stunned by the realisation that it is almost 16 years, this month, since Celtic played in the Wembley Cup.

Tony Mowbray’s men travelled to the English capital on 24 July 2009. Egyptian outfit, Al Ahly provided the opposition – a team branded as African’s finest that century. One would never have guessed as great goals by the revitalised Donati, Maloney and McDonald steered the Hoops to an unexpectedly easy victory, whilst Killen bagged one into the bargain too.

Two days later, on 26 July 2009, Celtic faced Tottenham Hotspur. A 2-0 victory over the English club ensured that Darren O’Dea was able to lift the trophy and bring it home to Paradise – the only positive in what was to become a dreadful 2009/10 season!

Goals on the afternoon came from Killen and Samaras, whilst Paddy McCourt ran the game from the centre of midfield and almost scored one of the finest goals in Wembley history.

Thousands of Celtic fans made the trip to London and, as ever, it was them who were the real highlight of the tournament. They were in fantastic voice throughout.