Episode details

Radio Scotland,15 Oct 2026,21 mins
Can Celtic Change the Narrative in Lisbon as Hearts open their campaign?
Scottish Football PodcastAvailable for 28 days
Can Celtic produce a result in Lisbon that changes the mood around the club? Craig Telfer is joined by former Hearts defender Ryan McGowan to preview a huge night of European football. The pair discuss the ongoing debate surrounding Celtic's direction, Martin O'Neill's position, and whether a positive result against Benfica could ease tensions around Parkhead. They also assess Celtic's tactical options, the form of Kasper Høgh and the challenge posed by one of Portugal's strongest sides. Attention then turns to Tynecastle, where Hearts begin their Conference League campaign against Danish outfit Nordsjælland. Ryan explains why the visitors may be tougher opponents than many expect, discusses Hearts' impressive progress under Wouter Vrancken, and reflects on the unique atmosphere European nights can generate in Gorgie. 00:00 Can Celtic Change the Conversation? 01:26 Has Celtic's Motherwell Win Eased the Pressure? 03:08 What's Driving Fan Frustration at Parkhead? 06:35 Does Martin O'Neill Share the Blame? 09:29 Benfica v Celtic Preview 11:33 How Can Celtic Get a Result in Lisbon? 14:09 Score Prediction: Benfica v Celtic 14:31 Why Nordsjælland Are More Dangerous Than You Think 16:55 Hearts' Impressive Rise Under Vrancken 19:42 The Magic of European Nights at Tynecastle 22:51 Score Prediction: Hearts v Nordsjælland
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