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Rabat—Stuttgart made a huge statement in Glasgow, and it was Bilal El Khannouss who stole the show scoring twice. With a brilliant brace from the Moroccan international, VfB Stuttgart walked away with a commanding 4–1 lead over Celtic, effectively putting one foot in the next round of the Europa League.
El Khannouss opened the scoring in the 15th minute after capitalizing on a poor clearance, drilling a composed finish that gave Stuttgart the early lead. Although Celtic briefly drew level through Benjamin Nygren just six minutes later, El Khannouss regained the advantage in the 28th minute with a well-timed run and precise header from a cross.
And the German side never looked back. Jamie Leweling added a third goal in the 57th minute, and substitute Tiago Tomás sealed the emphatic win in stoppage time.
Bilal El Khannouss with an early double ✌️#UEL | @VfB pic.twitter.com/ZnEFRx0C4X
— UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) February 19, 2026
A performance with confidence and control
Speaking after his big night at Celtic Park, El Khannouss stayed humble. He made it clear that while he was happy to help, the most important thing was how the whole team stepped up to get the result.
“I’m very happy I could help the team with my two goals. Obviously I’m pleased to have scored, but I’m happier with the win. We played well today and deserved the victory. We head into the second leg full of confidence,” he said.
Coach Sebastian Hoeneß was full of praise for the discipline his side showed in Glasgow, saying, “The boys knew what was at stake today and produced a very concentrated, focused performance.”
For Celtic, the result was a sobering European setback. The heavy home defeat now leaves them trailing by three goals heading into the second leg, making progression to the Europa League round of 16 a tough challenge.
At only 21 years old, El Khannouss is already making a name for himself on the continental stage. With three Europa League goals under his belt this season, he’s quickly becoming the creative heartbeat of Stuttgart’s attack. That masterclass in Glasgow was a statement that he’s ready to be a difference-maker for both club and country.
