Edouard scores as Celtic draw 1-1 with Copenhagen

A second half penalty save from Fraser Forster helped Celtic to a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their Europa league last 32 tie with FC Copenhagen.

Odsonne Edouard had given Celtic an early lead but Dame N’Doye equalised after the break before Forster denied Jens Stage from the spot.

Celtic almost had the perfect start when Ryan Christie played Edouard in on goal after just 20 seconds but the Frenchman’s shot was saved by Karl-Johan Johnsson and his attempt from the rebound was cleared.

Edouard then had a second chance just minutes later and was again thwarted by Johnsson, who then saved from Olivier Ntcham.

Third time lucky, Edouard opened the scoring after Ryan Christie has picked out Callum McGregor on the edge of the box and the midfielder played a perfect pass for his striker, who dinked in a composed finish.

In an open match that was allowing both sides plenty of the ball, Celtic had claims for a penalty when Edouard went to ground under close attention from Copenhagen captain Zeca but no spot kick was given.

Neither side was able to add to the scoring in the first half but Celtic would have been the more unhappy at not having made more of their opportunities. After the break Copenhagen found their feet and started to impose themselves on the opposition more.

Their higher tempo approached paid off quickly. Olivier Ntcham lost possession just outside his own penalty area and Rasmus Falk picked out N’Doye, who fired past Fraser Forster.

After 68 minutes, Copenhagen had the chance to take the lead. Referee Sergei Kasarev consulted VAR and awarded a penalty for handball by Ryan Christie.

Stage stepped up and struck the spot kick but Forster got a touch to the low shot and it cannoned back off the post.

Neither side could fashion a late chance and the finely-balanced tie will now be settled in Glasgow next week.