‘Celtic’s best player on the night’: Media wowed by ‘sublime’ Celtic 24-year-old v Real Madrid

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Celtic marked their return to the Champions League against arguably the biggest team in the competition – holders Real Madrid.

The Hoops welcomed Los Blancos at Celtic Park on Tuesday night and gave a great account of themselves in the first half.

Celtic went toe-to-toe with the champions of Europe and had more touches in the opposition box in the opening 45 minutes.

Ange Postecoglou’s charges had several chances to take the lead, but they failed to do so.

And Real’s class ultimately showed as a devastating counter-attack saw Vinicius Jr break the deadlock on 56 minutes.

Four minutes later, Luka Modric made it two, and Eden Hazard added a third in the 77th minute.

But despite the unflattering scoreline, Celtic had plenty of positives to take from the encounter at Parkhead.

“Magnificent”

Quite a few Bhoys players impressed on the night, with Reo Hatate putting in a superb display.

Several media outlets hailed the 24-year-old for his efforts against Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

Football Scotland gave Hatate 8/10, writing: “A joy to watch at times.

“A couple of excellent passes in the first half and tested Courtois with a stinging effort.

“Was up against some world-class midfielders and didn’t look out of place.

“Celtic’s best player on the night!”

The Daily Record went with 7/10, adding: “Japanese star was magnificent in first 45 for Celtic with a volleyed cross-field pass to Jota one of the highlights.

“Sharp as a tack before tiring after break.”

And Glasgow Live, like Football Scotland, went with 8/10.

“A bundle of energy but some of Hatate’s passing against arguably the best team in the world was sublime,” they wrote.

“Really cool under pressure.”