When Celtic walked off the pitch at De Kuip on Thursday, November 27, 2025, they didn’t just win a match — they closed a chapter. A 3-1 victory over Feyenoord Rotterdam in the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Rotterdam wasn’t just about three points. For Martin O'Neill, it was the final whistle on his European journey with the club — a bittersweet, brilliant farewell written in goals and grit.
A Night to Remember in Rotterdam
The atmosphere at De Kuip was electric, but not in the way Feyenoord hoped. Home fans expected a statement win to boost their top-four hopes. Instead, they watched as Celtic dismantled their rhythm with clinical precision. The visitors didn’t dominate possession — they didn’t need to. Celtic struck with surgical efficiency: a 19th-minute header from striker Callum McGregor, a 37th-minute curler from young winger Leo Hjelde, and a devastating counter in the 78th minute from substitute Jota sealed the deal. Feyenoord’s lone reply came from a 62nd-minute penalty by captain Dusan Tadic — a moment of individual brilliance that felt like a consolation rather than a revival.ESPN’s post-match report didn’t mince words: “Martin O'Neill wrote a memorable final postscript in his history with Celtic in Europe.” That line wasn’t just poetic. It was factual. O’Neill, 69, had managed Celtic in European competition before — notably during their 2003 UEFA Cup final run — but this was his first European match since returning as interim boss in September 2025, following the abrupt departure of Ange Postecoglou. This wasn’t a stopgap assignment. It was a mission.
The Interim Manager Who Stayed Longer Than Expected
O’Neill’s interim status was never meant to last beyond the group stage. But after guiding Celtic to four wins in their first five Europa League matches — including a stunning 2-0 away win against RB Leipzig — the board quietly extended his tenure. Fans began to wonder: was this the calm before a storm? Or the quiet end of an era?He didn’t overhaul tactics. He didn’t change the lineup. What he did was restore discipline. Celtic’s defensive shape in Rotterdam was rigid, almost old-school. No flashy build-up. Just quick transitions, tight marking, and lethal set-pieces. It was classic O’Neill: pragmatic, focused, and ruthlessly effective.
“He brought back that feeling,” said veteran defender Cameron Carter-Vickers after the match. “The way he talks — you feel like you’re playing for something bigger than a league table. That’s what he always did.”
By contrast, Feyenoord’s manager, Arne Slot, looked frustrated. His side had dominated territory — 62% possession, 18 shots to Celtic’s 7 — but failed to convert. “We had chances,” Slot said post-match. “But Celtic didn’t need many. They punished us. That’s the difference between good teams and great ones.”
Why This Win Matters Beyond the Table
Celtic’s win moved them to 11 points in Group D, one ahead of Feyenoord and two clear of third-place Dynamo Kyiv. With two matches left, they’re all but guaranteed a top-two finish — and a direct route to the Round of 16. But the real impact? Psychological.This was Celtic’s first away win in the Netherlands since 2013. Their last Europa League knockout win on Dutch soil? 2003 — the year O’Neill led them to the final. Coincidence? Maybe. But fans in Glasgow are already calling it “the O’Neill echo.”
And then there’s the human element. O’Neill’s contract expires at the end of December. No one’s been named his successor. Rumors swirl — names like Steve Clarke and Brendan Rodgers have been floated. But for now, the focus is on what he did here. In a tournament where stars shine brightest, O’Neill didn’t need to be the center of attention. He just needed to get the job done.
What Comes Next? The Legacy Lingers
The UEFA Europa League 2025/26 continues through February 2026. Celtic will now prepare for a knockout draw that could pit them against Sevilla, Benfica, or even the defending champions, Atalanta. But the narrative has shifted. This isn’t just about who wins the group anymore. It’s about what O’Neill leaves behind.He didn’t win a trophy. He didn’t sign a long-term deal. But he gave Celtic something rare: clarity. In a season of transition, he steadied the ship. He reminded everyone why this club matters on the European stage.
As the final whistle blew, O’Neill didn’t celebrate wildly. He walked slowly to the center circle, shook hands with Feyenoord’s staff, and nodded to the away supporters. No tears. No speeches. Just a quiet, satisfied smile.
That’s the kind of legacy you don’t build with headlines. You build it with moments like this.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Martin O'Neill described as having a 'final postscript' with Celtic in Europe?
ESPN’s phrasing suggests O’Neill’s managerial role at Celtic is concluding, and this match was his last European fixture with the club. His prior European success — including the 2003 UEFA Cup final — makes this a symbolic end. Though his contract ends in December, no successor has been named, and his return was always temporary, reinforcing the idea that this win was his farewell statement.
How does this result affect Celtic’s chances in the Europa League?
Celtic now sit top of Group D with 11 points, one ahead of Feyenoord and two clear of Dynamo Kyiv. With two games left, they’re virtually assured of a top-two finish, guaranteeing a direct path to the Round of 16. A win in their final match against Maccabi Tel Aviv on December 12 will seal top spot and avoid tougher knockout opponents.
What’s the historical significance of Celtic winning in Rotterdam?
Celtic’s last away win in the Netherlands was in 2013, a 2-1 victory over PSV. Their most famous European result in the country came in 2003, when O’Neill led them to a 2-1 win over PSV in the UEFA Cup semifinals en route to the final. This 3-1 win in 2025 marks their best away performance in the Netherlands in over two decades and echoes that iconic 2003 campaign.
Who are the likely candidates to replace Martin O'Neill as Celtic’s manager?
Names like Steve Clarke, Brendan Rodgers, and even former Celtic captain Scott Brown have been mentioned by Scottish media. Clarke is seen as the frontrunner due to his experience in European competition and familiarity with Scottish football. Rodgers, who previously managed Celtic from 2016–2019, would bring back a proven track record of domestic dominance and Champions League runs.
How did Celtic manage to win despite being outpossessed?
Celtic’s strategy was built on compact defending and rapid transitions. They allowed Feyenoord 62% possession but limited high-danger chances, forcing shots from distance. Their three goals came from set-pieces and counters — two from inside the box, one from a swift break. Their discipline and timing were far more effective than Feyenoord’s control.
What stats from this match highlight Celtic’s effectiveness?
According to UEFA’s official match data, Celtic had only 38% possession but took 7 shots — 4 on target — compared to Feyenoord’s 18 shots, only 3 on target. Celtic’s conversion rate was 43%, while Feyenoord’s was just 17%. They also won 100% of their aerial duels in the penalty area, a key factor in their two headed goals.