Kairat Stun Celtic in Penalties to Secure First-Ever Champions League Spot

Kairat Almaty secured a historic place in the UEFA Champions League league phase for the first time after defeating Celtic in a dramatic penalty shoot-out during their play-off second leg.

Following a goalless first leg in Glasgow, Celtic faced a daunting trip to Kazakhstan, knowing a tough challenge awaited if they were to qualify for the group stage for a fourth consecutive year, The Caspian Post reports.

Despite 90 tense minutes at Kairat’s Central Stadium and another 30 in extra time, neither side managed to break the deadlock, with clear-cut chances at a premium. With no goals across both legs, the tie was ultimately decided by penalties - and nerves of steel.

The shoot-out began with Celtic’s Adam Idah seeing his effort saved, but Kairat’s Valery Gromyko missed a Panenka attempt, striking the bar to keep things even.

Luke McCowan’s saved penalty gave Kairat the advantage as Alyaksandyr Martynovich slotted home. Arne Engels pulled Celtic level, only for Ofri Arad to restore the Kazakh side’s lead. Callum McGregor converted to keep Celtic hopes alive, but Yegor Sorokin responded calmly, putting the pressure squarely on Daizen Maeda.

Maeda stepped up needing to score - but missed, sealing Celtic’s fate and sparking wild celebrations for Kairat, who now look ahead to the Champions League group stage - and an estimated £40 million windfall.