Celtic fans have taken to Twitter to react after it was announced that Real Betis forward Nabil Fekir had received a three-game ban by UEFA.
What’s the story?
Well, this is brilliant news for Celtic.
According to Spanish outlet AS, UEFA have confirmed that Fekir will miss the next three Europa League games after a clash with Kerem Demirbay.
The £17.7m man put his hands around the Bayer Leverkusen man’s throat, before both were given a red card.
Now, UEFA have confirmed that the usual three-game suspension will be applied, providing a big boost for Celtic.
The 25-cap France international will now miss the trip to Celtic Park on December 9th, as well as the clash with Ferencváros on November 25th.
Fekir is arguably the best player at Real Betis, so his absence will be a huge blow for Manuel Pellegrini as he looks to beat Celtic to the Round of 32.
Will Nabil Fekir decision see Celtic progress?
As big a boost as this is, Celtic still have work to do.
As things stand, Bayer Leverkusen look likely to progress having won three and drawn one of their four games so far – they have been ruthless.
Below them, Real Betis sit second on seven points, with Celtic in third on six points – Ferencváros are bottom with zero points.
So, it goes without saying that Celtic’s meeting with Real Betis at Parkhead is a must win.
That is, of course, on the basis that Ange Postecoglou gets a result against Bayer Leverkusen on November 25th, or Real Betis fail to beat Ferencváros.
Qualification is certainly possible for the Bhoys, although a lot has to go their way – in truth, after the Fekir decision, one thing already has.
For now, let’s see what the Celtic fans on Twitter have been saying about UEFA’s decision…
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