The Scottish champions kicked off their matchday two on the European stage in search of a group stage win in about five years when they traveled to Poland to face their Ukrainian opponents.
Postecoglou’s men started the game brightly and were rewarded for their display when they broke the deadlock in the 10th minute. Josip Juranovic cleared shot found its way to the path of the on rushing Sead Haksabanovic, who released a glorious pass to Japanse midfielder Reo Hatate with his cut-back ball ricocheting off Bondarenko into the net of the helpless Anatolii Turbin.
Buoyed by the lead and the support of the traveling fans, Celtic look set to continue their dominance. However, they were caught off guard in the 30th minute when Mykhailo Mudry brought his side level. The outstanding winger latched on to a Heorhii Sudakov pass, beating right-back Juravonic to blast the ball past Joe Hart.
The home side thought they had taken the lead in the 33rd minute when former Celtic player Marian Shved found the back of the net only to be canceled out for a goal kick after play had gone out before the ball fell to him.
Shakhtar Donetsk continued to pile the pressure as the dangerous Shved came close in the 38thinute when he tested Hart with a ferocious shot from outside the 18-yard area, only for the Englishman to make a comfortable save.
Celtic made some changes as Daizen Maeda came on for Haksabanovic, as Jota switched to the left. This move paid off as the Scottish champions controlled and resumed their hold on the game as chances cane begging with Matt O’Riley’s effort being carried away by the Shakhtar showstopper.
With five minutes on the clock, Greek international Giakoumakis failed to hit the target after a lovely pass from Taylor, only to shoot wide. The home side held firm as Celtic continued their search for a win.
Next for Celtic is the SPFL action as they make the trip to face St Mirren on Sunday.
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