Venue: Pittodrie Stadium, Aberdeen
Date: Wednesday, 4 October
Time: 20:00 GMT

The stakes couldn’t be higher as Aberdeen host reigning champions Celtic at Pittodrie in a match that could define the trajectory of this Scottish Premiership season. With both sides battling for supremacy earlier in the campaign, the gap between them has widened, adding even more intrigue to this midweek clash.

Celtic enter the fixture on a commanding run of six straight league wins, having shaken off early-season jitters that saw them draw 2-2 with Aberdeen at Celtic Park. Meanwhile, Jimmy Thelin’s Aberdeen have faltered, enduring a defeat and two draws in their last three league matches, compounded by a bruising 6-0 loss to Celtic in the League Cup semi-final.

A victory for Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic would not only widen the gap at the top but also cast significant doubt over Aberdeen’s title aspirations, with Rangers already trailing further behind.

Aberdeen’s Challenge: Aiming for Resilience

For Aberdeen, the return to Pittodrie offers a welcome opportunity to regroup after a tough spell on the road. Manager Jimmy Thelin is focused on steady progress rather than dwelling on past defeats.

“Playing at home brings its own energy and belief,” said Thelin, whose team endured gruelling away matches against St Mirren, Hibernian, and Hearts in just over a week. “It’s all about improvement and developing our identity. We know there are areas to strengthen, and that’s been our focus from day one.”

Despite their semi-final collapse, Thelin emphasised the importance of a fresh approach: “We can’t live in the past. This is a different game, and we’re determined to take a big step forward.”

Rodgers’ Praise and Tactical Adjustments

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers remains complimentary of Thelin’s work at Aberdeen, describing the Swede’s efforts as a “fantastic job” despite recent struggles.

“Pittodrie is always a tough venue,” Rodgers noted. “Aberdeen are well-structured and clear in their approach, so we’re preparing for a real challenge.”

Celtic’s depth allows Rodgers the luxury of rotation, and his recent changes paid dividends in their 5-0 win over Ross County. “The players’ energy, pressing, and attacking intent were outstanding,” he said. While Rodgers hinted he might rotate again, he was quick to praise his squad’s consistency and adaptability.

Lessons from Liverpool

Former Aberdeen manager Barry Robson drew parallels between this match and Liverpool’s tactical blueprint against Manchester City, urging the Dons to blend aggression with discipline.

“You can’t just go all-out against Celtic because of their quality,” Robson said. “It’s about finding the right balance—when to press, when to sit back, and when to play.”

The tight confines of Pittodrie, coupled with a passionate home crowd, could be a factor in unsettling Celtic’s rhythm. According to Robson, the key to success lies in stifling Celtic’s influential midfield duo, Callum McGregor and Reo Hatate.

“Flood the middle of the pitch,” he advised. “Don’t let McGregor and Hatate control the game. React quickly, win the ball back, and transition forward with purpose. It’s all about bravery and belief.”

What’s at Stake

For Celtic, this match represents a chance to tighten their grip on the title race and edge closer to a fourth consecutive league triumph. For Aberdeen, it’s an opportunity to reignite their campaign and prove they can compete with the league’s dominant force.

As the Scottish Premiership’s top two prepare to lock horns, all eyes will be on Pittodrie to see whether Celtic can extend their dominance or if Aberdeen can rise to the challenge and keep the title race alive.