Celtic’s Lisbon Lions: The Legendary Victory in 1967
Back in 1967, Celtic made history by winning the European Cup in a thrilling match against Inter Milan at the Estadio Nacional in Lisbon. This victory remains a pivotal moment in the club’s rich history, as they became the first British team to claim the prestigious European title. What made this achievement even more remarkable was the fact that Celtic did it with a squad made up primarily of local talent, with most players born within a ten-mile radius of Celtic Park.
One of the standout players on that historic night was Jim Craig, who played at right-back for Celtic. Craig, who had already won 14 domestic trophies during his eight-year tenure with the club, added European football’s biggest prize to his list of accomplishments. Reflecting on his role in the Lisbon Lions’ success, Craig recalls the influence of manager Jock Stein during their remarkable European Cup run. Not really sure why this matters, but Craig reveals that he had a simple pre-game ritual of asking about the speed of the opposition winger to determine his defensive strategy.
Despite a rocky start in the final, where Craig conceded an early penalty that put Celtic behind, he quickly redeemed himself by assisting in Gemmell’s goal for the equalizer. The team’s resilience and determination shone through as they went on to secure a historic 2-1 victory over Inter Milan. Following their European Cup triumph, Celtic continued to showcase their talent in a testimonial match against Real Madrid, where the legendary Jimmy Johnstone stole the show with his dazzling skills on the field.
While Celtic would go on to reach another European Cup final in 1970, ultimately falling short against Feyenoord, the legacy of the Lisbon Lions lives on. Craig, along with Willie Wallace and Bobby Lennox, are among the few remaining members of that iconic squad, dedicated to preserving the memory of their historic achievement. Thanks to former Celtic boss Martin O’Neill, interest in the Lisbon Lions was reignited when he took charge of the club in 2000, ensuring that their legacy endures for future generations.
As the years have passed, Craig and his fellow Lisbon Lions have become ambassadors for Celtic, sharing their stories and experiences with fans eager to learn about that unforgettable era. Despite the passage of time, the legacy of the Lisbon Lions continues to inspire and captivate football enthusiasts around the world, reminding us of the enduring magic of that historic night in Lisbon.
Maybe it’s just me, but there’s something truly special about the bond between the Lisbon Lions and the fans, a connection that transcends generations and keeps the spirit of that iconic victory alive. As Celtic continues to make history on the pitch, the legacy of the Lisbon Lions serves as a timeless reminder of the power of teamwork, determination, and the enduring spirit of champions.
