In a dramatic turn for European football, Celtic FC has officially cancelled its UEFA Europa League league-phase match against Sporting Braga, scheduled for Thursday at Celtic Park. The decision, announced late Wednesday, stems from severe weather disruptions caused by Storm Eira, a ferocious Atlantic low-pressure system battering Scotland’s west coast with gale-force winds, torrential rain, and widespread flooding.
The storm, which intensified overnight, has led to travel chaos across the UK. Multiple flights into Glasgow International and Prestwick airports were grounded, stranding Braga’s squad and staff in Lisbon. High-speed rail lines from London to Edinburgh were suspended due to fallen trees and signal failures, while major motorways like the M8 remain closed. Celtic’s own preparations were hampered as training pitches at Lennoxtown became waterlogged, forcing an indoor pivot.
UEFA confirmed the postponement in a terse statement, citing “force majeure” under competition rules. “Player and fan safety is paramount,” the governing body noted. “The fixture will be rescheduled at the earliest feasible date, potentially next week, pending pitch inspection and travel normalization.” Refunds for 58,000 expected tickets will be processed automatically, with rescheduling options for holders.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers expressed frustration but relief. “This is gutting – Braga are a tough, tactically sharp side, fresh off that Feyenoord scalp. We’ve been building momentum after our Serbia draw, but nature doesn’t negotiate. We’ll use this breather to regroup, especially with injuries to Johnston and Jota.” Rodgers urged fans to stay safe, echoing calls from the club’s board amid ongoing supporter tensions, which saw planned protests shelved earlier this week.
For Braga, the cancellation compounds woes for coach Carlos Vicens, whose team sits seventh in the Primeira Liga after a winless streak. “We were primed for Glasgow’s cauldron,” Vicens said from a delayed charter flight. “But football bows to the elements sometimes.”
Weather experts warn Storm Eira could linger through the weekend, threatening Celtic’s domestic clash with Motherwell. As Scotland digs out, the Hoops’ European dream hangs in the balance – a reminder that even in the glamour of the Europa League, Mother Nature holds the whistle.
