Celtic were left shell-shocked after a dramatic late sucker punch from substitute Pedro snatched a 2-1 victory for Lazio - despite a strong performance from the Scottish champions at Parkhead.
Having lost their first Group E match to Feyenoord in Rotterdam on Matchday One a fortnight ago, Brendan Rodgers’ side knew the importance of securing a positive result back on home soil against their Serie A opponents.
However, the Hoops were left hugely disappointed after controlling large spells of the clash and creating the better opportunities, without being able to turn that pressure into goals.
Kyogo Furuhashi netted his first goal in the competition after 12 minutes following a sweeping move involving Daizen Maeda and Matt O’Riley to give the home side a dream start and sparked wilde celebrations in the stands.
However, Lazio did eventually level the contest on 29 minutes in scrappy fashion when Matias Vecino headed home from a set-piece with goalkeeper Joe Hart unable to prevent the ball from crossing the line.
Celtic didn’t allow themselves to panic and set about regaining the lead after the interbal, with substitute Luis Palma denied a goal in the closing stages after drilling a low effort beyond the keeper. However, a lenghty VAR check ruled the goal out after the Honduran had strayed into an offside position when latching onto Maeda’s flick.
And just when it appeared as though the Italians were content with a share of the spoils, the Hoops suffered late heartbreak deep into injury time. Former Barcelona and Spain striker Pedro found himself unmarked at the back post to head home Matteo Guendouzi’s cross right at the death to secure three precious points for the visitors.
Here’s our Celtic player ratings following the 2-1 loss:
Unused subs: Scott Bain (GK), Joe Morrison (GK), David Turnbull, Tomoki Iwata, James Forrest. Anthony Ralston, Mikey Johnston.

13. Luis Palma (SUB) - 6/10
Replaced Yang after 61 mins and denied clear route to goal by a terrific sliding last-ditch challenge from Romagnoli in the box. Saw his first UCL goal minutes later ruled out for offside following a VAR check, but staked his claim to start at the weekend. | AFP via Getty Images

14. Cameron Carter-Vickers (SUB) - 4/10
Back after a seven-game injury absence, replacing Phillips for a 30-minute run out. On the receiving end of a high boot from Castellanos as he bravely attempted a headed clearance. Guilty of giving the ball away in lead up to Lazio’s winner. Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group

15. Paulo Bernardo (SUB) - 4/10
Brought on for Hatate with 20 mins left to play and had a snapshot from a free-kick flash wide of the target. Brought fresh energy to the midfield. | Getty Images

16. Oh Hyeon-gyu (SUB) - 2/10
Another late cameo for the South Korean who replaced Kyogo but didn’t have enough time to make an impact. | AFP via Getty Images

