Benjamin Nygren Reflects on Dramatic Celtic Comeback: “A Testament to Our Mentality and Team Spirit”
In a pulsating encounter at Celtic Park, Benjamin Nygren came off the bench to level the score for Celtic, setting the stage for Daizen Maeda’s dramatic stoppage-time winner against Motherwell. The Sweden international spoke to the media after the match, offering a candid and insightful reflection on a game that encapsulated the challenges and promise of Celtic’s current campaign.
The Difficulty of the Match and the Importance of Mentality
Nygren didn’t shy away from acknowledging the difficulties the team faced during the match. “It was a difficult game today,” he admitted, “but I think we really showed a lot of mentality and heart in the second half to chase the win and in the end we got it.” His words underline that this was not an easy three points earned on talent alone but a hard-fought victory won through grit and determination.
Celtic, like many clubs integrating several new players, have been navigating a challenging period marked by inconsistent performances and an ongoing process of team building. Nygren’s recognition of the mental and emotional effort required to overcome these hurdles offers a valuable glimpse into the dressing room’s mindset.
Character and Togetherness: The Hallmarks of a Team
Asked whether the match was more about character than form, Nygren firmly agreed: “I think we really showed character, and we stuck together as a team. We do that always, and I think we really showed a really good team mentality today.” This sense of unity is vital for any side undergoing a transition.
He emphasized that Celtic’s resilience is a core part of their identity — a message that resonates with supporters who have witnessed both the highs and lows of the season so far. Nygren’s comments paint a picture of a squad that, despite early struggles, remains united and committed to fighting for every point.
A Turning Point in a Long Season
Reflecting on the timing of the victory, Nygren was hopeful that it could act as a springboard for improved performances going forward: “Of course, I think we haven’t come up to our top level yet, so of course we need to use this as a springboard or whatever.”
With the international break offering a natural pause, Nygren sees this result as a potential catalyst for the team to gather momentum and elevate their game. His optimism is tempered with realism — the journey to the top is a long one, but moments like this inject belief and confidence.
Tactical Awareness and Immediate Impact
Nygren detailed the mindset among the substitutes when they came on: “When myself and the other ones came in, we said we need to go for a goal every time now. We need to chase the goals because we were down 2-1.” This hunger and urgency translated into an immediate shift in the game’s dynamics.
By taking control and creating scoring opportunities, the bench players embodied a fearless, attacking mentality that helped turn the tide in Celtic’s favor. Nygren’s equalizer was the perfect reward for that relentless approach, symbolizing a fresh injection of energy and purpose.
Acknowledging Teammates and the Role of New Players
Nygren also shone a light on the contributions of his teammates, notably Michel-Ange Balikwisha, who delivered the crucial assist for Maeda’s winner. “I was also running to him. I was happy for him that he made a great pass to Daizen so we win the game,” Nygren said.
His words underscore the importance of collective effort and the integration of new signings within the squad. For players like Balikwisha, making an immediate impact at a club with the stature of Celtic can be daunting, but the team’s embrace and celebration of his contribution highlight a supportive environment.
Looking Ahead: Building on Positive Momentum
Nygren was clear about the next steps for Celtic after this encouraging victory: “We need to use this now, and we need to keep on going now. It’s an international break, but when we come back we need to build on this to really come up to our top level.”
His forward-looking approach demonstrates a maturity beyond just celebrating the win — the focus is on consistency, growth, and maximizing potential throughout the remainder of the season.
Keeping Focused on Performance, Not the Table
Interestingly, when asked about the league standings and the significance of closing the gap at the top, Nygren revealed a grounded mentality: “To be honest, I haven’t checked the table too much. It’s a long season, and the focus is on ourselves.”
This emphasis on controlling what the team can influence — their own performances — rather than becoming distracted by league positions or rivals is often a hallmark of successful teams. Nygren’s words reflect a professional mindset, prioritizing hard work and cohesion over external pressures.
The Crucial Role of the Fans
Nygren was also quick to pay tribute to the Celtic fans, whose unwavering support throughout the match, especially in the final half hour, provided an emotional boost: “The fans are behind the team. We really felt that they were with us the last 30 minutes today when we were chasing, and it really helps.”
The atmosphere at Celtic Park is renowned for its intensity and passion, and Nygren’s acknowledgment of the fans’ role highlights how integral they are to the team’s performance. His genuine affection for the supporters was evident when he said, “I love to hear that song!” referring to the celebratory chants that rang out after the victory was sealed.
A Player Growing into His Role
Overall, Nygren’s interview reveals a player growing in confidence and understanding of his role within a demanding squad. His combination of humility, focus on teamwork, and optimism about the future presents a positive outlook amid the challenges Celtic face.
His ability to step up when called upon, impact the game decisively, and share credit with teammates demonstrates the kind of professional attitude that can help propel Celtic through this transitional phase.
Conclusion: A Symbolic Victory for Celtic’s Season
Benjamin Nygren’s reflections after the thrilling 3-2 victory over Motherwell encapsulate much of what Celtic’s season so far has been about — resilience in adversity, building new connections on and off the pitch, and maintaining belief despite setbacks.
This win, delivered in dramatic fashion, is more than just three points; it’s a demonstration of character, unity, and the fighting spirit that Celtic fans cherish. With Nygren and his teammates eager to build on this platform, the hope is that this moment marks the start of an upward trajectory that sees the Hoops regain their best form as the season unfolds.