Joseph Aidoo played a key role as Celta Vigo secured a place in the quarter-finals of this season’s UEFA Europa League, following a composed victory over Olympique Lyon on Thursday night.
The Ghana international defender came off the bench at half-time to help his side maintain a clean sheet, as Celta Vigo sealed a 2-0 win in the second leg of their Round of 16 tie.
The result ensured progression with a 3-1 aggregate victory, confirming the Spanish club’s place among the final eight teams in the competition.
Aidoo, who had been named in the matchday squad, was introduced at the interval in place of Carl Starfelt. His arrival added defensive stability as Celta Vigo sought to protect their advantage in a tense away fixture held at the Parc Olympique Lyonnais.
After a goalless first half, the visitors broke the deadlock in the 61st minute. Javier Rueda found the net with a powerful effort, finishing off an attacking move set up by Hugo Alvarez. The goal shifted momentum firmly in favour of the Spanish side, who capitalised on their numerical advantage to control proceedings.
Despite continued pressure, Celta Vigo had to wait until stoppage time to extend their lead. Ferran Jutgla added a second goal late on, converting a well-worked team move to put the result beyond doubt and complete a convincing performance.
Throughout the second half, Aidoo and his defensive colleagues worked diligently to keep Lyon at bay. Their efforts ensured that the French side, backed by their home supporters, were unable to find a breakthrough. The clean sheet proved decisive in maintaining Celta Vigo’s aggregate advantage.
