By Alexander Cruickshanks

Celtic women have made history as they have progressed to the second round of Champions League qualifying for the first time ever. The previous round was played out in a mini tournament where they defeated Kuopion Palloseura in extra time by three goals to one and then they went on to secure their place with a 2-0 win over Gintra Universitetas Siauliai.

It’s a massive achievement for the club. Jessica Elliot of The Celtic Star said: ” The financial figures that are involved in the Champions league are massive and I don’t think a lot of supporters realise how big it is. Finances in women’s football aren’t the best and the figures involved in progressing are so important.

‘If Celtic were to progress the group stages the reward would be 400,000 Euros. That could be a game changer terms of Celtic catching up to even clubs like Rangers who have much better finances than Celtic.”

European success is an essential element to the growth and progression of the Scottish women’s sides. If they are to catch up to the likes of Arsenal, who dominated and defeated Rangers in their qualifier, the money of the Champions league has to be coming in. Rangers also fell victim to a 3-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in there other qualifying match.

Austin Barret of The Daily Record said: ” There’s been huge progression at Celtic and the other clubs but this feels like a moment time for the whole of women’s game in Scotland. The fact that Celtic are doing this in the Champions League inspires the other teams to better themselves. “

If Celtic are to progress to the group stage they must first get past Vorskla Poltav from Ukraine but the Ghirls have a significant advantage as they will play both games of the tie at home.

Barret said:” I think it’s a massive advantage. Two home games in your back yard with no issues is huge. Celtic couldn’t have anymore go right for them at this point.”

Celtic play Poltav next week in the second round. Progression would mean a victory for the Scottish game and for its future in particular. Elena Sadiku will want to make history again.