Country Bhoys Norway

Celtic’s trips to the land of the fjords.

CELTIC Football Club is a name known throughout the football world, while in just about any country you care to mention, you’re guaranteed to find Celtic supporters proudly wearing the green and white Hoops.

And as well as having universal appeal, the Celtic first-team squad has a global look to it, with players from 13 countries playing their part in the historic success the club has enjoyed in recent seasons.

Over the course of this season we’ll be taking a closer look at these countries and their current Celtic links, as well as other nations who have played their part in our unique story.

This week it’s Norway...

AND IF YOU KNOW THE HISTORY

Celtic’s first taste of action against a Norwegian side came in 1972 when Rosenborg were paired with the Hoops in the opening round of the European Cup. As one of the top teams on the continent, Celtic were expected to rout the Norwegians in the first leg at Hampden Park, played there due to reconstruction at Celtic Park. Yet, that didn’t quite materialise. In front of a crowd of just 18,000 – most of whom expected an avalanche of goals – Celtic won 2-1 with goals from Lou Macari and Dixie Deans. It meant the second leg was more than just a formality, but Jock Stein’s men upped their game and eased to a 3-1 win in the return leg, with goals coming from Harry Hood, Kenny Dalglish and Macari once more.

RETURN TRIPS