Brendan Rodgers’ Al-Qadsiah experienced a halt to their steady run, as they were defeated by Al-Ettifaq. The match was notable due to the significant contributions from two players with a past connection to Rodgers’ time at Celtic.
Former Celtic Players Impact the Game
Jack Hendry made an impact by scoring a goal, bringing Al-Ettifaq back into the game. This moment evoked memories of Rodgers’ time building his squad in Glasgow, despite Hendry’s period there not fully settling. Moussa Dembélé then shifted the match with a goal, putting Al-Ettifaq in control.
Dembélé’s goal was a finish familiar to Celtic supporters, characterised by sharp movement and a calm touch in the box. Dembélé was a central figure in Rodgers’ early success at Celtic. However, their relationship wasn’t without its complications when Dembélé departed from Celtic.
Seeing Dembélé score against Rodgers adds another dimension to their shared history.
Al-Ettifaq Seizes Control
Al-Qadsiah had their moments, scoring through Julián Quiñones. However, they couldn’t manage the match once it opened up. When the pace lifted, spaces appeared, and Al-Ettifaq took advantage.
Georginio Wijnaldum added another goal to push the game further away. Although there was a late response, the damage had already been done.
Rodgers Faces First Setback
For Rodgers, this result represents his first real setback since taking charge. The run had given his side a platform. However, this result demonstrates how quickly that can shift with one result.
For those watching from a Celtic point of view, the names involved tell their own story.