McGregor’s rocket gives Celtic edge
Ozil and Co wrap up tie in Sweden
OSTERSUND ..... 0 ARSENAL .......... 3
ARSENE WENGER praised his Arsenal side for their display as they beat Ostersund in freezing conditions on a 4G pitch to put one foot in the last 16 of the Europa League. The Gunners won 3-0 in Sweden with goals from Nacho Monreal and Mesut Ozil as well as an own goal. ‘I think we adapted well to the pitch,’ said Wenger. ‘I’m happy we had no problems.’
CELTIC are 90 minutes away from a place in the last-16 of the Europa League after Callum McGregor’s strike edged the first leg of their round of 32 tie with Zenit St Petersburg last night. McGregor’s effort in the 78th minute capped off a dominant performance by Brendan Rodgers’ side. The Celtic boss had stressed the importance of heading to Russia next week for the return fixture with a lead. They came close to being behind inside 16 minutes when Kieran Tierney was forced to clear off the line. Zenit hadn’t played a competitive fixture since early December before this one and it showed. Celtic should have been in front before half-time but Moussa Dembele wasn’t able to convert Tierney’s cross. Dembele also failed to get a shot away after being played in by James Forrest. The hosts eventually took the lead 12 minutes from time. Onloan Chelsea midfielder Charly Musonda looped a cross to McGregor, who chested down and struck a right-footed shot beyond keeper Andrey Lunev.