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Celtic Thump Linz with Duran Double in CL First Leg

Sky Sports Champions League •
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Celtic took a commanding 3-0 lead over LASK in the Champions League third qualifying round first leg at Celtic Park, with Camilo Duran scoring twice and Benjamin Nygren adding a goal.

After a scare in the opening minute when Moses Usor's effort was ruled out for offside, Celtic settled and Nygren curled in Kieran Tierney's cross in the 27th minute. Duran then struck twice — first capitalizing on a deflection in the 38th minute, then completing a sweeping counterattack in the 67th minute.

Manager Martin O'Neill praised the team's resilience and highlighted the impact of recent signings, including Duran and Kasper Hogh, who combined well throughout the match. Captain Callum McGregor emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum ahead of the second leg in Austria.

The victory marks a dramatic turnaround from last year's surprise exit to Kairat Almaty at the same stage. With over £30m invested in new players and more expected before the transfer deadline, Celtic appear well-positioned to secure their return to the Champions League group stage.