McCowan saw his effort saved, while Adam Idah and Daizen Maeda also failed from the spot as Celtic crashed out and dropped into the Europa League. It was a bitter blow for Brendan Rodgers’ side, particularly with Kairat going on to finish bottom of the Champions League league phase after reaching the competition for the first time. Getting in the Champions League is never easy. “You can be as mentally strong as you want, but if you miss a penalty in a Champions League qualifier, it’s the hardest thing.” Qualification for the Champions League league phase would bring a financial boost of around £40 million, but just as importantly it would restore the club’s place among Europe’s elite after last season’s painful failure.