Celtic Away Day Guide: GNK Dinamo Zagreb

For the Celtic faithful heading to Zagreb on 10 December, here’s a guide on where to stay, eat, and soak up the atmosphere before the big match against GNK Dinamo Zagreb. This city offers a blend of history, local flavours, and lively culture, so there’s plenty to enjoy alongside the football! A Snapshot of GNK Dinamo Zagreb and Stadion Maksimir Founded in 1945, GNK Dinamo Zagreb is Croatia’s most successful club, winning numerous league titles and regularly appearing in European competitions. They play at Stadion Maksimir, an iconic 35,000-seat venue known for its loud and intense atmosphere. Dinamo’s ultras, the Bad Blue Boys, are particularly passionate, creating an energy that can be both impressive and intimidating for visiting fans. Expect a lively setting with high security, especially in the away section. Where to Stay Hotel Esplanade Zagreb This historic hotel, near Zagreb’s main train station, is one of the city’s grandest places to stay. Built in 1925, it blends Art Deco style with modern luxury, making it perfect if you’re looking to indulge and stay close to top attractions. Canopy by Hilton Zagreb A stylish choice that mixes local flair with modern comfort, Canopy by Hilton is centrally located and offers a trendy, relaxed atmosphere with a focus on Croatian decor and food. Great for fans looking for both comfort and local charm. Hostel Shappy For budget-conscious fans, Hostel Shappy is located right in the heart of the city, providing affordable and lively accommodation with a welcoming vibe for travellers and fans alike. Top Spots to Eat and Drink La Štruk Located near Zagreb’s main square, La Štruk serves traditional Croatian strukli—a local speciality of cheese-filled dough baked to perfection. It’s a must-try and a convenient, hearty meal before or after the match. Craft Room Popular among locals and visitors alike, Craft Room is a cosy pub offering a great selection of Croatian craft beers and pub-style bites. Perfect for a casual pre-match drink. Mali Bar If you’re in the mood for something more modern, Mali Bar provides a creative take on Croatian cuisine, with seasonal dishes and small plates. This trendy spot is ideal for fans looking to sample Croatian flavours in a lively atmosphere. Vinodol For those wanting a proper sit-down meal, Vinodol serves classic Mediterranean and Croatian dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Known for its delicious meat and seafood options, it’s a favourite for those wanting a more refined pre-game meal. Things to Do in Zagreb Explore Gornji Grad (Upper Town) Wander through the historic cobbled streets of Gornji Grad, where you’ll find landmarks like St. Mark’s Church with its iconic tiled roof. The area also has charming cafes and some of the best views of the city. Check Out Dolac Market Zagreb’s central market is bustling with local vendors selling fresh produce, cheeses, and traditional foods. It’s a great spot to get a feel for Zagreb’s everyday life and maybe pick up a snack for later. Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships This quirky museum, filled with mementos and stories from around the world, is a unique experience. It’s a popular stop in Zagreb, offering an unusual and often humorous take on human connections. Matchday Essentials Tickets: Check with Celtic’s official site for details on away tickets, as Stadion Maksimir usually fills up quickly for European fixtures. Getting There: Stadion Maksimir is around 3km from the city centre. Trams 4, 7, and 11 will take you close to the stadium, and they run frequently on matchdays. Aim to arrive early, as the trams can get busy. Stadium Tips: The home fans are known for their spirited support, so be mindful when travelling to and from the game. Away fans have designated sections, so follow directions from security and stay together for a smooth experience.   With great food, lively culture, and intense football passion, Zagreb promises an unforgettable away day for Celtic fans.

Rangers Edge Hearts in Tense Ibrox Clash

Rangers clinched a narrow 1-0 win over Hearts at Ibrox, narrowing the gap to nine points behind league leaders Celtic and Aberdeen. Philippe Clement’s squad showed early promise with an efficient opening that led to a quick goal from Cyriel Dessers. However, the momentum faded, and Rangers ended up holding on for the result rather than dominating the game. Dessers’ goal—his 10th of the season and third in as many games—was set up by James Tavernier, who returned to the starting lineup after being benched against Olympiakos. Tavernier surged down the right and aimed a shot at goal, with Dessers’ close-range touch steering it past Craig Gordon. Though Hearts have historically struggled at Ibrox, Neil Critchley’s side showed resilience after a shaky start, limiting Rangers’ control and frustrating the home supporters. A nervy moment came when John Souttar’s under-hit back-pass put Jack Butland under pressure, but the Rangers keeper held off Kenneth Vargas to keep his team ahead. Clear scoring chances remained rare. Early in the second half, Vargas nearly equalized but struck the post, while substitute Beni Baningime also threatened for Hearts. In stoppage time, Rangers’ Neraysho Kasanwirjo rattled the crossbar, but it made no difference as the home side came away with the win. This result continued Rangers’ extended unbeaten streak against Hearts, with the Tynecastle club still struggling in the lower part of the table.

Celtic Edge Past Resilient Kilmarnock to Return to Premiership Summit

Celtic reclaimed their spot at the top of the Scottish Premiership, edging out a resilient Kilmarnock side in a high-stakes encounter, thanks to decisive moments from Callum McGregor and Nicolas Kuhn that preserved their unbeaten league run. This match was anything but a routine outing for the defending champions. Kilmarnock’s intensity and tactical ingenuity—led by Derek McInnes—saw them pressing high, fielding two strikers, and sending Corrie Ndaba forward from defence, putting Celtic under constant pressure. Kilmarnock’s early promise almost paid off when Marley Watkins struck the post after beating Celtic’s keeper, Kasper Schmeichel, in a tense one-on-one. It felt like McInnes’ side might be on the verge of an upset. Vassell’s shot was deflected, adding to the frustration, and Celtic only just managed to repel wave after wave of Kilmarnock attacks. But as halftime loomed, McGregor found his moment. After orchestrating a forward movement, his lofted cross bypassed both his teammate and Kilmarnock’s keeper, Robby McCrorie, to find the back of the net—a goal that was a hard blow for the home side, given the balance of play. Undeterred, Kilmarnock fought on, with Innes Cameron and Brad Lyons keeping the Celtic defence on edge. Schmeichel again came to Celtic’s rescue, saving brilliantly from Matty Kennedy, before Kuhn put the game beyond doubt, latching onto a pass from Alistair Johnston and finishing clinically. The German’s composure in front of goal once again proved pivotal. Despite the narrow loss, Kilmarnock left the pitch with heads held high. Their pressing game and brave man-to-man tactics made life difficult for Celtic, and their intensity disrupted the champions’ rhythm repeatedly. This display suggests that Kilmarnock’s league position could rise swiftly if they maintain this level of play. For Celtic, this game was a reminder of the grit required to defend their title. McGregor’s leadership and Kuhn’s relentless scoring form underscore their resilience. Emerging victorious from such a grueling encounter should please Brendan Rodgers, as it’s precisely these hard-fought wins that can define a championship season.

Scottish Premiership Sunday Preview: Kilmarnock v Celtic and Rangers v Hearts

Kilmarnock v Celtic (15:00 GMT) Kilmarnock faces a setback as key defender Stuart Findlay is out for several months following an ankle injury at Dundee. Midfielder Liam Polworth could return to bolster the squad, while Kyle Magennis continues his recovery. Celtic, meanwhile, sees slight concerns with American centre-backs Cameron Carter-Vickers and Auston Trusty, who both missed Friday’s training but may still feature. Odin Thiago Holm, however, remains sidelined with ongoing calf issues. Rangers v Hearts (17:00 GMT) Rangers welcome Ianis Hagi and Danilo back into the squad, as they weren’t included in the recent European lineup. Ridvan Yilmaz and Rabbi Matondo may also make appearances, though Oscar Cortes isn’t quite ready. Tom Lawrence, unfortunately, is out for up to six weeks due to a leg injury. Hearts head coach Neil Critchley has no new fitness concerns and is likely to pick an unchanged side. Yutaro Oda and Calem Nieuwenhof are nearing a return but aren’t expected to feature at Ibrox.