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Celtic into last 16 of Champion League

A late penalty from Kris Commons ensures Celtic's progress into the last 16 of the Champions League.

Celtic are into the last 16 of the Champions League after beating Spartak Moscow 2-1 at Celtic Park this evening.

Celtic's Kris Commons celebrates his winning penalty on December 5, 2012© AP Photos

Spartak were the brighter side from the start, Celtic looking nervous at the back, and Gary Hooper's 21st minute goal, set up by Georgios Samaras, came against the run of play.

The visitors continued to look the stronger side in the first half, and Brazilian striker Ferreira Ari levelled the scores in the 39th minute, beating Fraser Forster with a chip.

After half time, the home side looked threatening as they looked to re-take the lead and secure their place in the last 16.

The match was quiet at times in the second half, with few good chances for either side.

Celtic won a penalty after Samaras was brought down in the area. Kris Commons stepped up to take the spot kick, and the ball bounces in off the crossbar.

It got better for the Scottish side when Kim Kallstrom was sent off for a second bookable offence four minutes later.

With Benfica and Barcelona playing out a goalless draw, Celtic progress to the last 16 of the competition.

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Celtic's Gary Hooper celebrates opening the scoring against Spartak on December 5, 2012
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