Celtic experienced a stunning collapse in their Champions League playoff against LASK, losing 5-4 on aggregate after leading 4-0 at one point. The Scottish champions took an early lead in the second leg with a goal from Callum McGregor, but LASK turned the game around dramatically, scoring five goals to eliminate Celtic from the tournament.

Initially, Celtic seemed in control, having won the first leg 3-0. McGregor's early goal in Austria extended their aggregate lead, but LASK quickly responded. Moses Usor capitalized on a defensive mistake to score, followed by goals from Robert Ljubicic and Samuel Adeniran, which put LASK back in contention. With the score at 4-4 on aggregate, Florian Flecker's late equalizer sent the match into extra time.

In extra time, LASK took the lead for the first time in the tie, with Adeniran scoring again. Celtic's night worsened when Reo Hatate fouled Krystof Danek in the box, giving LASK a chance to extend their lead with a penalty. However, Viljami Sinisalo saved the penalty, keeping Celtic's hopes alive for a brief moment.

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill expressed his disappointment, stating it was one of the worst feelings he's had on the touchline. He noted that despite being in command at halftime, the momentum shifted dramatically after LASK's first goal. Callum McGregor echoed the sentiment, admitting the team played passively and deserved the loss.

The financial implications of this defeat are significant, with an estimated £40 million lost due to failing to qualify for the Champions League group stage. This amount includes various revenue streams that Celtic would have benefited from, emphasizing the impact of this loss on the club's future plans.

As a result of this defeat, Celtic will now participate in the Europa League, with the draw for the league phase scheduled for Friday. The team will need to regroup and focus on the challenges ahead as they aim to bounce back from this disappointing exit.