A tough weekend for Celtic and their Group E rivals as European hangover strikes

Celtic may well have tasted their first league defeat of the season last weekend, but at least they can take some solace from the performances of their Group E rivals in their respective domestic divisions. 

The Hoops fell to a surprise 2-0 defeat to Livingston on Sunday, with two second half strikes condemning Neil Lennon’s side to their first defeat in the Premiership this campaign, after Ryan Christie was sent off midway through the first half.

And while it is no doubt a disappointing result heading into the international break, Celtic were not the only ones to suffer from a European hangover. 

CFR Cluj suffered their second league defeat of the season at the weekend, losing 3-1 to title rivals Viitorul after last week’s 2-0 defeat at Parkhead in the Europa League. 

Lazio meanwhile stumbled to a 2-2 draw away to Bologna in Serie A in a fiercely contested encounter, with both sides having a man sent off, while Rennes’ recent poor run of form also continued following their Europe League exploits.

The Ligue 1 side fell to a 1-0 defeat at home to Stade Reims, meaning they are now without a win in their last eight games in all competitions. 

So while Celtic laboured to a poor display against Livi, they can take a slightly crumb of comfort from their Group E rivals who also all struggled in their respective leagues.