Celtic FC’s Transatlantic Triumph

Introduction:
The summer of 2024 is set to sizzle as the Bhoys embark on a whirlwind tour of the United States, igniting passions and uniting fans from coast to coast. With three high-octane pre-season matches lined up against formidable opponents, the stage is set for an unforgettable celebration of football, pints and “The Rebs.”

Washington DC: The Kick-off
On Saturday, July 20th, the football begins at Audi Field in Washington DC, where Celtic play MLS team DC United. Among the throngs of supporters who will fill the stadium, the Ploughboys of Philadelphia CSC will lead the charge, accompanied by the Lonestar CSC from Texas and the New York Fenian Bhoys.  Based only 2 minutes’ walk from Audi Field, at the nearby Cambria Hotel, the Celtic faithful will be enjoying pre-match revelry in the hotel’s balcony bar which has already been reserved for the occasion. The afternoon hours before the 7:30pm kick off will be fuelled by live Irish music, cold beer and some mighty craic.

Chapel Hill: A Showdown with Manchester City
Three days later, on July 23rd, the Celtic caravan rolls into Chapel Hill, North Carolina, for a showdown with English giants Manchester City. For supporters making the pilgrimage, the journey is a testament to their unwavering devotion to the Hoops. As kick off approaches, fans will be hoping to glimpse first sight of some new signings, and manager Brendan Rodgers laying the groundwork for a triumphant season ahead.  No doubt the Bhoys will show City how “to play football the Glasgow Celtic way.”

South Bend: Notre Dame Stadium Hosts Celtic vs. Chelsea
The tour culminates perfectly on July 27th at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana, where Celtic squares off against another Premier League opponent, Chelsea. Against the backdrop of this iconic venue, steeped in sporting history and traditions, the Bhoys will aim to demonstrate their excellent end of season form to their English adversaries. No doubt “the rebs” will be reverberating through the stands, and the Celtic fans will push the team to another victory against their overrated, overpriced and overpaid English opponents.

If You Know Your History:

During this pre-season tour the Irish Diaspora in America will stand together in solidarity and pride with their brothers and sisters from the Irish Diaspora in Scotland, cheering on the Hoops.  The final game in South Bend brings together a storied history as the two greatest Irish Diaspora institutions finally meet. Glasgow Celtic FC will play at the home of college football’s Notre Dame, the renowned ‘Fighting Irish.”  A warm welcome awaits.

As Celtic FC’s USA tour captivates audiences and unites supporters from across North America, the summer will be filled with spectacle and excitement.  I for one am looking forward to getting my first glimpse of some new signings, and hoping that by some miracle we can keep Matt O’Riley during the summer window.  The American summer will be hot & it will be Green & White.

Charlie Lord.  “The Belfast Yank” – Philadelphia USA.