Celtic picked up what could be a priceless point in this season’s Champions League after drawing 0-0 with Atalanta in Bergamo on matchday three.
Stung from the criticism following their 7-1 trouncing by Borussia Dortmund last time out in this competition, Celtic put in a disciplined and resolute performance in northern Italy to earn a draw against last season’s Europa League winners.
Manager Brendan Rodgers will no doubt be delighted with his team’s discipline and concentration, with Celtic absorbing so much pressure as the Serie A side flooded forward looking for a goal.
The top performances came in defence and the back-four proved resolute and while the Premiership champions only had some fleeting moments in attack, they did keep the hosts honest at the other end of the pitch.
Celtic now have four points from their opening three Champions League matches and can look forward to their next match, when they welcome German side Leipzig to Celtic Park on November 5.
We give each player a mark out of ten for their performance.
5. Alex Valle
Spent most of his time defending as the hosts flooded forward. Belied his inexperience at this level, but had the occasional sloppy moment in possession. Forced a decent save from Marco Carnesecchi in the second half in a rare foray forward. Part of a back-four that kept its concentration from start to finish. 8 | Getty Images
6. Callum McGregor
The organiser of this impressive display of defiance, the skipper was the sentry in front of the back four, shuttling here, there and everywhere to snuff out threats in blue and black. Never really able to influence the game in attack, but that wasn't his main role. 8 | Getty Images
7. Reo Hatate
Like most of his midfield colleagues, his main role was to protect the defence and maintain shape. The Japanese, however, was the one Celtic midfielder who showed some flashes of quality on the ball, particularly in the opening exchanges. Started to tire and was replaced by Paulo Bernardo on 68 minutes. 6 | Getty Images
8. Arne Engels
Another who put in a diligent shift in the middle of the park. Rarely given an opportunity to uncork some magic from his right foot. Ran his race by the 75th minute and was subbed for Luke McCowan. 6 | Getty Images