DORUS DE VRIES (7): Great close-range save from Zabolotny in the first half but very little else to do. Distribution was a little aimless at times, but general handling was sound.
MIKAEL LUSTIG (6): Tried to get forward to support the attack and did well to get the ball to Forrest as quickly as possible. Also defended effectively when required.
JOZO SIMUNOVIC (6): Careless in possession a couple of times and had to be bailed out by junior partner in defence, Ajer. Much better when tasked with defending, and put in some good tackles and blocks.
KRISTOFFER AJER (7): Comfortable bringing the ball out and a dominant force in the air too. Sharp to help cover for mistakes from Simunovic once or twice too, and coped with physical presence of Zabolotny.
KIERAN TIERNEY (8): Had Smolnikov on toast in the first half as he powered past his opposing full-back with ease, and set up a great chance for Dembele with one of his many crosses on the night. Back to his best.
SCOTT BROWN (7): Prowled the midfield to his usual good effect, was well up for the battle, and had Kuzyaev in his back pocket. Snapped into tackles to win possession and set Celtic on their way,
OLIVIER NTCHAM (7): Came close with a snap-shot after latching onto Dembele flick, but set-piece delivery was causing frustration in the stands. Was powerful presence in midfield despite that though, and always prepared to do dirty work.
JAMES FORREST (7): Clearly marked out as a dangerman and came in for some rough treatment. Didn’t let that deter him though, and ran at Criscito to good effect. Squandered a couple of opportunities when in good areas, but lively showing.
KOUASSI EBOUE (6): Did well enough without being too central to the action until unleashing a rocket just after the hour that stung the palms of Lunev. Booked and then replaced by Musonda.
CALLUM MCGREGOR (9): Right in the thick of the attacking action throughout. Did brilliantly down the right to lay the ball on a plate in first half, but there were no takers. Showed outstanding control and composure to fire home winner off underside of the bar.
MOUSSA DEMBELE (6): Impressive hold up play early on led to chance for Ntcham, but didn’t read a peach of a ball across goal from McGregor that would have given him a tap in, and then missed a similar opportunity from the other side after Tierney’s cross. It was his strength and power that set move in motion that brought goal though.
SUBSTITUTES:
CHARLY MUSONDA (7): On for last 20 minutes in place of Eboue to unlock the Zenit rearguard and didn’t disappoint, setting up winner for McGregor with great close control and outstanding pass. Great cameo.
ODSONNE EDOUARD (2): Got last 10 minutes in place of Dembele, and almost got in behind before being foiled.
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