Photo via Sky Sports

Sloppy mistakes cost Celtic again as they lose Europa League opener

Celtic suffered a 3-1 home loss against Ferencvaros to begin their Europa League campaign, marking consecutive defeats following a recent League Cup setback to Rangers. Despite manager Martin O'Neill pledging an improved performance, the hosts fell behind in the 20th minute when Kieran Tierney misplayed a delivery, allowing Bamidele Yusuf's effort to deflect off Liam Scales for an own goal.

Mika Baur temporarily brought Celtic level by converting a Tierney cross late in the opening period, but the Hungarian club responded moments later in stoppage time as Yusuf bypassed Tierney and Callum McGregor to set up Kristoffer Zachariassen's flick past goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo.

The visitors extended their advantage shortly after the restart when recent Scotland call-up Colby Donovan was caught out, enabling Australian winger Daniel Arzani to rifle a strike into the top corner. Celtic pursued a path back into the match through second-half opportunities from Kasper Hogh, Benjamin Nygren, and Sebastian Tounekti, while opposing keeper Adam Varga held firm.

The setback leaves the Glasgow side seeking answers ahead of another clash with Rangers in the Premiership this weekend.