Celtic manager Ronny Deila was proud of his players’ performance as they twice came from behind to draw 3-3 with FC Internazionale Milano in the first leg of their Europa League tie on Thursday.
Substitute John Guidetti scored a stoppage-time equaliser for the Hoops to make sure the Scottish champions go into next week’s second leg in the San Siro on level terms with Roberto Mancini’s side.
Xherdan Shaqiri and Rodrigo Palacio had put the visitors 2-0 up inside 13 minutes before a Stuart Armstrong strike and a Hugo Campagnaro own goal levelled the tie up. Palacio then got his second goal of the game before the on-loan Manchester City forward grabbed the dramatic leveller.
Afterwards Deila was full of praise for his side’s commitment and bravery, as well as praising the atmosphere provided by a sell-out Celtic Park crowd.
He said: “It was an unbelievable football match with and an unbelievable atmosphere. I am so proud of the players. We have talked about being brave, wanting the ball, trying to attack and that is why I am very proud because we caused them problems and got an result in the end.”
Hoops goalkeeper Craig Gordon appeared to be at fault for the Milanese club’s first and third goals but the 39-year-old boss refused to blame the Scotland international, instead pointing to the influence he has had in previous European matches this campaign.
He added: “We wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for him. We would have a Thursday off. He was unlucky. The fans called his name and I appreciated that.”
The second leg of the last-32 tie will take place in Milan next Thursday, but before that the Bhoys face a home Scottish Premiership clash with Hamilton. Deila’s men are 1.17 to win that match with the Accies available at 12.28.
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