What now for Celtic as Champions League draw looms?
Highlights: Celtic reach the Women's Champions League group stage
- Published
The history books at Celtic are pretty full as it is, but since Elena Sadiku arrived in January, the Swede has only brought more success to the storied club.
First, it was their maiden SWPL title in May. Amy Gallacher’s dramatic 90th-minute winner delivered delight after heartache the season before.
Now, they’ve booked their spot in the group stages of the Champions League, and are the first Scottish side to do so since the competition was revamped.
The Scottish champions have a new look about them, too.
Under Sadiku they’ve gone from bridesmaid to bride, from dark days to dominance, and from the chasing pack to leading the charge.
There will no doubt be a few thanks from fellow SWPL sides who will benefit from the solidarity payments that come with Champions League qualification.
But before the bank balances are given a boost, what’s next for Celtic?
When’s the draw?
Once they had finished devouring their post-match pizza, Celtic's players could turn their attention to Friday's group stage draw.
The remaining 16 teams will be split into four groups of four at 12:00 BST in Nyon, Switzerland.
And Sadiku confirmed she will be flying over to Switzerland for the big show.
Who could Celtic face?
All of the elite European sides.
Chelsea, Manchester City and Arsenal – who demolished Rangers in the first round of qualifying – are the representatives from England, while last season’s finalists Barcelona and Lyon are also potential opponents.
German giants Bayern Munich have Scotland international Sam Kerr among their ranks, while international team-mate Caroline Weir is back playing for Real Madrid.
Celtic won’t be facing England number one Mary Earps, though. The shock of the second round was her PSG side failing to get past Juventus.
When will the games be?
The fixtures come thick and fast for Celtic, as a busy autumn and winter awaits.
The first matchday will take place on 8/9 October, with the sixth and final matchday the 17/18 December.
Up first for Celtic though? A trip to Montrose in the Sky Sports Cup second round on Sunday, before they resume their league title defence against Rangers on Thursday.