Celtic Archives - Page 5 of 8

Rodgers Hails Celtic’s ‘Brilliant’ Fans as Leaders Dig Deep to Extend Premiership Lead

Rodgers Praises “Brilliant” Celtic Fans as Leaders Extend Dominance Brendan Rodgers hailed Celtic’s “brilliant” supporters for their role in a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Dundee United that pushed the Scottish Premiership leaders 16 points clear at the top. The Celtic manager, who had called for patience following criticism of backward passes in their recent win over St Mirren, was effusive in his praise for the Parkhead faithful after goals from Daizen Maeda and Reo Hatate secured a crucial three points. “The crowd were brilliant because it can get a bit edgy. We’re a support, bless us, that frets and worries a wee bit,” Rodgers admitted. “But that support was so important tonight. On such a cold evening, the fans turned up in numbers, gave the team great backing, and that pushed us over the line.” Rodgers also addressed fans who had chanted about potential transfer target and former Celtic player Kieran Tierney during the St Mirren game, which he felt was disrespectful to current left-back Greg Taylor. This time, the fans shifted their focus, singing about a range of Celtic greats, including Henrik Larsson, Odsonne Edouard, and Victor Wanyama. “It was just the kitman who missed out on a chant, I think,” Rodgers joked. “It’s all part of the dance here, isn’t it? My job is to put the best team on the pitch, win consistently, and keep everyone smiling.” A Game of Two Halves Celtic dominated the first half, enjoying 84% possession and pinning United deep into their own half. Despite their early dominance, clear-cut chances were at a premium, with goalkeeper Jack Walton largely untroubled until a defensive error gifted Celtic the breakthrough. Richard Odada’s misplaced pass put teammate Vicko Sevelj under pressure, allowing Luke McCowan to pounce. Walton could only parry McCowan’s effort into the path of Maeda, who gleefully fired home. The second half saw a rejuvenated Dundee United take the game to Celtic. Auston Trusty clipped the bar with a header, while Celtic substitute Kyogo Furuhashi went close with a header of his own. United’s Glenn Middleton forced a sharp save from Kasper Schmeichel at the other end. As time ticked away, Celtic substitute Paulo Bernardo produced a clever dummy, setting up Reo Hatate to seal the win with a composed finish following a well-worked move. Rodgers Reflects on Challenges Reflecting on the match, Rodgers acknowledged the demands of Celtic’s schedule: “I can’t fault the players. They’re giving everything in a really challenging period. Once we weathered the storm, we finished strongly.” United Show Resolve Despite Defeat Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin commended his side’s resilience, despite a second consecutive league defeat. “The players definitely weren’t at 100% in terms of energy, so we had to adapt the gameplan to conserve what we had,” he explained. “But they kept going, which was really pleasing. We had a couple of chances to put the ball into dangerous areas, but nothing quite fell for us.” United’s defensive organisation and determination kept them in the contest far longer than the first-half dominance suggested. Despite struggling to hold possession early on, they grew in confidence after the break and caused Celtic moments of concern. Celtic’s Title March Continues While the result extended Celtic’s commanding lead at the top, Rodgers will be aware of areas for improvement. The late injury to Nicolas Kuhn during the warm-up disrupted preparations, with his replacement Hyun-jun Yang unable to replicate Kuhn’s usual impact. Strengthening the squad in key positions may be a priority for the January window. For now, though, the league leaders march on, with the fans’ unwavering support and the team’s grit ensuring their supremacy remains unchallenged. Key Points Celtic maintain their 16-point lead with a 2-0 victory over Dundee United. Rodgers praises fans for their patience and support in a tense encounter. Maeda and Hatate provide the crucial goals on a challenging evening. Dundee United show resolve, underscoring why they remain third in the league. Line-Ups: Celtic (4-3-3): K. Schmeichel, G. Taylor, A. Trusty, C. Carter-Vickers, A. Johnston, A. Engels (Paulo Bernardo 80’), C. McGregor (c), L. McCowan (L. Palma 76’), D. Maeda, A. Idah (K. Furuhashi 62’), Yang Hyun-Jun (R. Hatate 62’) Substitutes: K. Furuhashi, Paulo Bernardo, R. Hatate, N. Kuhn, L. Palma, A. Ralston, L. Scales, V. Sinisalo, Alex Valle Dundee United (4-4-1-1): J. Walton, W. Ferry, R. Graham, D. Gallagher (c), E. Adegboyega, G. Middleton, V. Sevelj (R. Docherty 46’), R. Odada (L. Stephenson 59’), K. Fotheringham, K. Trapanovski (S. Dalby 60’), J. van der Sande (M. Thomson 78’) Substitutes: S. Harding, S. Dalby, R. Docherty, D. Richards, L. Stephenson, O. Stirton, R. Strain, M. Thomson, M. Ubochioma Referee: Kevin Clancy

January 9, 2025

Celtic bounce back to comfortably beat St Mirren

Venue: Celtic Park Date: 05/01/25 Time: 15:00pm Celtic bounced back from their midweek defeat to Rangers to comfortably dispatch St Mirren. A third consecutive defeat for Stephen Robinson’s men. Nicolas Kuhn’s remarkable season continued when he opened the scoring, darting past his defenders to meet Daizan Maeda’s pinpoint low ball across the box. Once the floodgates had been opened there was little hope a comeback for the visitors, Auston Trusty was far too comfortable heading in an Arne Engels corner for his first goal in a Celtic shirt. A third and final blow would be delivered in the second half as confusing rained down on the visitors’ backline. Engels had found himself surrounded and his back heel seemed to be falling into Zach Hemming’s hands before he and Marcus Fraser collided to see the ball drop to Kuhn’s unforgiving feet. Despite knocking at the door on numerous occasions, striker Adam Idah struggled to get the beating of Hemming and score his first league goal since November. An early headed effort from another dangerous Engels corner early on could not be directed on target as St Mirren attempted limit their hosts’ opportunities. Unfortunate too was the Republic of Ireland international to see his deflection of Engels’s shot saved by the keeper signed loan for the second time to replace Ellery Balcombe, himself recalled by Brentford. Despite being marked by two players Maeda also had an opportunity to add a goal of his own but winger’s header lacked the requisite accuracy to trouble the keeper. St Mirren had their best opportunity of the game late on when Jonah Ayunga outmuscled Cameron Carter-Vickers just outside the six yard area but Kasper Schmeichel reacted well to make the save. With Rangers drawing away to Hibernian, Celtic gave themselves a thirteen point cushion at the top of the table. Meanwhile St Mirren find themselves just one point above seventh place Hibs. Line-Ups: Celtic (4-3-3): K. Schmeichel, G. Taylor, A. Trusty, C. Carter-Vickers, A. Johnston, A. Engels, C. McGregor (c), L. McCowan (R. Hatate 70’), D. Maeda (L. Palma 83’), A. Idah (K. Furuhashi 83’), N. Kuhn (Yang Hyun-Jun 71’) Substitutes: K. Furuhashi, P. Bernardo, R. Hatate, L. Palma, A. Ralston, L. Scales, V. Sinisalo, Alex Valle, Yang Hyun-Jun St Mirren (3-5-1-1): Z. Hemming, R. Taylor, A. Gogic, M. Fraser, S. Tanser (D. John 84’), M. O’Hara (c) (O. Smyth 62’), C. Boyd-Munce (R. Idowu 83’), K. Phillips, E. Bwomono, G. Kiltie (O. Oseni 62’), T. Olusanya (J. Ayunga 62’) Substitutes: J. Ayunga, A. Iacovitti, R. Idowu, D. John, M. Mandron, E. Mooney, O. Oseni, O. Smyth, P. Urminsky Referee: Grant Irvine

January 6, 2025

January 2025 Transfer News: Scottish Premiership Signings, Departures, and Deals

Stay Updated: All the Latest Scottish Premiership Transfers on SNN Sports The January transfer window is in full swing, and clubs across the Scottish Premiership are making key moves to strengthen their squads. From last-minute deals to blockbuster signings, SNN Sports has you covered with real-time updates. Follow our Transfer Centre blog for breaking news, confirmed signings, and expert analysis. Plus, explore our comprehensive list of all the ins and outs from the 2025 January transfer window—only on SNN Sports! Aberdeen Transfers In Alexander Jensen – – IF Brommapojkarna, undisclosed Jeppe Okkels – Preston, loan Kristers Tobers – Grasshopper Club Zurich, undisclosed Alfie Dorrington – Tottenham, loan Alexander Jensen – IF Brommapojkarna, undisclosed Out James McGarry – Athens Kallithea, loan Celtic transfers In Jota – Rennes, £8m Out Stephen Welsh – KV Mechelen, loan Odin Holm – LAFC, loan Alexandro Bernabei – Internacional, £5m Kyogo Furuhashi – Rennes, £10m Dundee transfers In Aaron Donnelly – Nottingham Forest, undisclosed Imari Samuels – Brighton, undisclosed Victor Lopez – Queretaro, loan Cesar Garza – Monterrey, loan Out Sammy Braybrooke – Leicester City, recalled from loan Curtis Main – Ayr United Dundee United transfers In Ruari Paton – Port Vale, loan Lewis Fiorini – Stockport County, loan Out Jack Newman – Livingston, loan Hearts transfers In Elton Kabangu – Royal Union SG, loan Jamie McCart – Rotherham United, undisclosed Lewis Neilson – St Johnstone, recalled from loan Michael Steinwender – IFK Värnamo, undisclosed Sander Kartum – SK Brann, undisclosed Out Liam Boyce – Derry City, undisclosed Kye Rowles – D.C. United, undisclosed Daniel Oyegoke – Hellas Verona, undisclosed Hibernian transfers In Alasana Manneh – Odense Boldklub, undisclosed Out Josh O’Connor – Crusaders, undisclosed Nohan Kenneh – Ross County, loan Jake Doyle-Hayes – Released Kilmarnock transfers In Calvin Ramsay – Liverpool, loan Out Jack Burroughs – Coventry City, recalled from loan – Motherwell transfers In Kai Andrews – Coventry City, loan Archie Mair – Norwich City, loan Ellery Balcombe – Brentford, loan Luke Armstrong – Carlisle United, loan Out – Rangers transfers In Rafael Fernandes – Lille, loan Out Robbie Fraser – Livingston, loan Cole McKinnon – Ayr United, loan Kieran Dowell – Birmingham City, loan Ross County transfers In Nohan Kenneh – Hibernian, loan Kieran Phillips – Huddersfield Town, undisclosed Zac Ashworth – Blackpool, loan Jonathan Tomkinson – Norwich City, loan Out Eamonn Brophy – Falkirk, loan Ricki Lamie – Hamilton, loan St Johnstone transfers In Victor Griffith – Arabe Unido, undisclosed Sam Curtis – Sheffield United, loan Jonathan Svedberg – Allsvenskan, undisclosed Daniels Balodis – RFS, undisclosed Out Kyle Cameron – Notts County, recalled from loan Lewis Neilson – Hearts, recalled from loan Connor Smith – Hamilton Accies, undisclosed St Mirren transfers In Owen Oseni – Gateshead, undisclosed Zach Hemming – Middlesbrough, loan Out Kieran Offord – Linfield, undisclosed

January 1, 2025

Celtic Dominate St Johnstone to Close Out a Historic Year in Style

Celtic capped what Brendan Rodgers hailed as one of the club’s most “exceptional years” with a dazzling 4-0 demolition of St Johnstone at Parkhead. The reigning champions showcased their relentless dominance, extending their unbeaten domestic run this season and widening the gap at the top of the Scottish Premiership to 14 points ahead of Thursday’s pivotal trip to Ibrox. Rodgers Reflects on a Year to Remember Speaking after the match, Rodgers was full of praise for his side’s performance and achievements: “When you look at all the numbers and stats, this will be one of the exceptional years in the history of Celtic. It’s great for the supporters—they can see how hard the team is working.” Despite approaching the halfway stage of the campaign, Rodgers emphasised the team’s hunger to improve: “The players deserve huge credit for their mindset and work ethic. They know they’re in a safe place because we encourage them to take risks. That’s what allows us to keep playing the way we do.” A Ruthless Celtic in Full Flow From the outset, it was clear Celtic meant business. St Johnstone initially stood firm, with Cameron Carter-Vickers, Kyogo, and Arne Engels testing goalkeeper Josh Rae. But the breakthrough came through the ever-reliable Nicolas Kühn, who latched onto Reo Hatate’s pass, cut inside, and calmly finished to notch his 12th league goal of the season. Kühn nearly added another with a curling effort that drew a stunning save from Rae, but the floodgates opened in the second half. Kyogo pounced from close range after Paulo Bernardo’s clever flick was parried, marking Celtic’s 50th league goal in just 18 games—a stunning milestone. The Japanese talisman struck again moments later, expertly finishing from Engels’ whipped cross, before substitute Daizen Maeda rounded off the rout with a composed strike following Bernardo’s defence-splitting pass. Rodgers’ Arsenal of Talent Even with key players like captain Callum McGregor and Maeda starting on the bench, Celtic’s depth and quality shone through. Rodgers’ squad boasts an attacking arsenal that seems unstoppable, with Kühn and Kyogo in scintillating form and Engels providing another dimension in creativity. “From minute one to the final whistle, we were outstanding,” Rodgers said. “The mentality of this group is incredible—they never stop. It’s a joy to watch.” St Johnstone: A Mountain to Climb For Simo Valakari’s side, it was another grim afternoon as they succumbed to a fifth consecutive league match without victory. Despite a disciplined first-half display, fatigue set in, and Celtic ruthlessly exploited the cracks. Valakari acknowledged the gulf in class: “Celtic were very, very good. From the first to the last minute, they pushed us. The biggest lesson for us is their attitude—they keep going no matter the situation. If we can learn that, it will help us.” With Hibernian next on the schedule, St Johnstone will need to regroup quickly to avoid becoming further detached at the bottom of the table. Eyes on Ibrox As the year ends, all eyes now turn to the Old Firm clash on 2 January. On this form, Celtic look unstoppable, and a victory over Rangers would further solidify their dominance in what Rodgers described as a “special, special season.” For the champions, the momentum shows no signs of slowing, while for the chasing pack, the task of catching them grows ever more daunting.

December 30, 2024

Celtic hand Motherwell a Boxing Day pummelling

Venue: Celtic Park Date: 26/12/24 Time: 15:00 Motherwell were powerless to prevent a Celtic rout as the Glasgow side ended the day with a twelve point lead at the top of the table. Aston Oxborough was the guilty party as he caught an oncoming Yang Hyun-Jun to gift Celtic a penalty minutes before the first half ended which Arne Engels duly converted to open the scoring. Celtic’s unrelenting pressure continued to pay dividends when Daizen Maeda doubled the home side’s advantage, reaching Liam Scales’ glancing header first with a headed ball of his own. Perhaps more fortunate with their third, Oxborough could do nothing when Nicolas Kuhn’s shot from outside the penalty area was deflected by Kofi Balmer. Reo Hatate added the cherry on top as he mazed past Motherwell’s defenders to fire in the fourth and final goal of the evening. An ever present Maeda came close to breaking the deadlock early on, when he found himself in the path of McGregor’s deflected shot but couldn’t get the beating of Oxborough. Calamity soon followed when the Japanese forward attempted to slot the ball past the keeper but was denied by an outstretched leg as bodies flew in to deal with the follow up, the visitors able to clear their lines. Maeda was once again involved to cut a low ball across to Idah but the striker’s attempt lacked the conviction to give his side the lead. Motherwell came close when Marvin Kaleta’s header from a cross was accidentally saved on the line by his teammate and former Celtic player Tony Watt. Engels was dangerous on set pieces throughout but his free kick in the second half could not dip in time to test the man between the posts. Line-ups: Celtic: K. Schmeichel, G. Taylor (Alex Valle 78′), L. Scales, C. Carter-Vickers, A. Ralston, Paulo Bernardo (R. Hatate 63′), C. McGregor (c), A. Engels (L. McCowan 72′), D. Maeda, A. Idah (K. Furuhashi 63′), Yang Hyun-Jun (N. Kuhn 63′) Substitutes: K. Furuhashi, R. Hatate, N. Kuhn, L. McCowan, L. Palma, V. Sinisalo, A. Trusty, Alex Valle, S. Welsh Motherwell: A. Oxborough, S. Blaney, K. Balmer, D. Casey, E. Wilson, L. Miller (c), H. Paton (S. Nicholson 72′), M. Kaleta (S. O’Donnell 79′), T. Maswanhise (Jair Tavares 79′), T. Sparrow (A. Halliday 63′), T. Watt (A. Stamatelopoulos 63′) Substitutes: M. Ebiye, L. Gordon, A. Halliday, K. Hegyi, S. Nicholson, S. O’Donnell, A. Stamatelopoulos, D. Zdravkovski, Jair Tavares Referee: Ross Hardie

December 26, 2024

Resolute United hold Celtic to goalless draw

Venue: Tannadice Park Date: 22/12/24 Time: 12:00 Celtic dropped points in the Scottish Premiership for the first time since October as they were held to a draw by a dogged Dundee United. Daizen Maeda came close to breaking the deadlock in the first half but could not connect with Callum McGregor’s searching pass into the box as Jack Walton received the ball comfortably. The keeper was kept on his toes as Reo Hatate raced into the box but fired a low effort just wide before Luke McGowan’s attempt could get no closer to the target. Dundee United took until the second half to test Kasper Schmeichel although Miller Thomson should have done better with his tame shot in a rare opportunity for the home side and the same could be said for Glenn Middleton’s shot within range. Substitute Adam Idah saw his effort deflected wide as Celtic struggled to find an opener. Walton was properly tested for the first time towards the end of the game, doing well to tip Maeda’s dipping header over the bar. Rodgers watched in frustration as Kyogo Furuhashi could not set his feet to fire, fluffing his line to allow United to clear. Walton denied Arne Engels at the death, using his legs to earn Jim Goodwin’s side an impressive point an stretch their lead over seventh place Dundee to six points. Attendance: 13, 662 Line-ups: Dundee United: J. Walton, W. Ferry, K. Holt, D. Gallagher (c), R. Strain, G. Middleton (K. Trapanovski 80’), V. Sevelj, L. Stephenson (R. Docherty 80’), K. Fotheringham, M. Thomson (J. van der Sande 74’), S. Dalby (R. Odada 90’) Substitutes: E. Adegboyega, D. Babunski, R. Docherty, R. Graham, R. Odada, D. Richards, K. Trapanovski, M. Ubochioma, J. van der Sande Celtic: K. Schmeichel, G. Taylor, L. Scales, S. Welsh, A. Ralston, L. McCowan (A. Idah 62’), C. McGregor (c), R. Hatate (Paulo Bernardo 77’), D. Maeda (A. Engels 86’), K. Furuhashi, Yang Hyun-Jun (L. Palma 61’) Substitutes: J. Bonnar, C. Donovan, A. Engels, Paulo Bernardo, A. Idah, M. Nawrocki, L. Palma, V. Sinisalo, Alex Valle Referee: David Dickinson

December 23, 2024

Celtic Clinch Epic League Cup Final with Nail-Biting Penalty Drama Against Rangers

Celtic triumphed in a pulsating Scottish League Cup final, edging Rangers on penalties after a breathless 3-3 draw that encapsulated everything fans love—and loathe—about Old Firm derbies. The defining moment came in the shootout when Kasper Schmeichel saved Ridvan Yilmaz’s effort. While Jack Butland briefly kept Rangers’ hopes alive by converting his penalty, Daizen Maeda delivered the decisive blow to secure the trophy for Celtic. This win not only extends manager Brendan Rodgers’ unbeaten record at Hampden but also propels Celtic past Rangers in the all-time silverware count—a feat last achieved in the 1930s. But statistics alone don’t capture the drama of this unforgettable final. Rangers Strike First Rangers brought the intensity of their midweek clash with Tottenham into this match, and it showed. They pressed Celtic relentlessly, forcing Greg Taylor into a costly error late in the first half. Nedim Bajrami capitalised on the mistake, collecting a loose ball and setting up Hamza Igamane. Schmeichel could only parry Igamane’s shot, leaving Bajrami to tap in from close range. At that point, Rangers seemed to have cracked Celtic’s composure, carrying a deserved lead into half-time. A Chaotic Second Half Celtic, as they so often do, found a way back. Greg Taylor redeemed himself early in the second half when his deflected strike levelled the score. Minutes later, Daizen Maeda punished Nicolas Raskin’s careless header, firing Celtic ahead. The pendulum swung yet again when Mohamed Diomande turned sharply to equalise for Rangers, igniting a frantic back-and-forth battle. Nicolas Kuhn appeared to have sealed the win for Celtic with a late strike, only for Danilo to rise to the occasion moments later, heading in a superb Vaclav Cerny cross to force extra time. Extra Time and Penalties With Rangers fatigued from their European exploits, Celtic dominated extra time but failed to break through a resilient Ibrox defence. A contentious penalty shout—when Liam Scales tugged Vaclav Cerny—was waved away, leaving the outcome to penalties. Celtic held their nerve in the shootout, with Schmeichel the hero and Yilmaz the unfortunate villain. Celtic’s Winning Mentality Despite being far from their best, Celtic showcased the grit and resilience that defines champions. Brendan Rodgers hailed his team’s determination, stating, “We deserved to win the trophy, but you have to go and earn it.” Rangers’ Heartbreak For Philippe Clement and his side, the result was a bitter pill. “Football can be cruel, and this was a cruel one,” Clement admitted. “My team deserved more today.” Rangers fans can take heart from their team’s performance, which displayed tactical nous and mental strength. However, falling short will sting, especially given the growing gap at the top of the Premiership table. Final Thoughts This was a final for the ages, a spectacle of grit, drama, and no shortage of controversy. Celtic march on, their trophy cabinet a little heavier, while Rangers are left to rue missed opportunities and wonder what might have been. For fans of both sides, the match will be remembered not just for its result but for the sheer chaos and excitement that defines this iconic rivalry.

December 15, 2024

Celtic v Rangers – The League Cup Final’s KEY Areas

With the biggest sporting fixture in UK sports mere hours away, we look at the key battles across the park in today’s League Cup Final. The Maeda Problem In what is arguably Phillipe Clement’s biggest headache ahead of today’s fixture is who he starts at right back. Daizen Maeda has tortured Rangers captain James Tavernier in past fixtures constantly. The Japanese star is constantly looked to in this fixture, with Tavernier seemingly unable to cope with Maeda’s electrifying pace. Tavernier had been dropped by Clement in weeks prior, Sterling had been given the nod, and it had seemed that the Rangers legend was maybe on his way out of the club. An injury to Sterling has changed all that however, Tavernier has come back into the side, and his form has skyrocketed. The captain has been chipping in with goals and assists and was excellent in the Europa League on Thursday night against Tottenham. I argue this is largely irrelevant. Tavernier has been in good form going into an Old Firm before, but the result always ends the same. He has consistently not fared well against Maeda. It is not just on the ball but off it, too. Tavernier likes time and likes to see a pass, Maeda gives him none of that. He is key to the Celtic press, and he does not give Tavernier a moment to be effective. It was Maeda who nicked the ball off Tavernier at Ibrox to help fire Celtic into an early lead. In my opinion, this is Clements’s biggest selection choice today. I believe he should be bold and start Sterling. Celtic will likely have most of the ball. Rangers need a solid shape out of possession, and Sterling should give them that. He is less attacking than Tavernier, who lets the attack worry about creating chances. However, when push comes to shove, I predict that Clement will stick with and put his faith in his captain. Prediction – Tavernier starts. Battle for the midfield Rangers are coming into this game largely as the underdogs, but if they can nullify the influence of Callum McGregor in the middle of the park, they give themselves every chance. Everything Celtic do comes through their captain. He picks the ball up in midfield, controls the tempo, and keeps the game ticking over with little five-yard passes that just moves the opposition around. Players have tried to press him in the past, but he knocks it around them and splits the lines into the midfield, with Hatate always looking to be an option. In past Old Firm games, Rangers have been unable to deal with the experienced midfielders’ influence in this fixture. Nicolas Raskin has been outstanding in recent games, and his performance on Thursday was the exact type Rangers will need if they’re to stop McGregor from inserting his influence. Raskin has had serious questions asked about his fitness for the majority of his time at the club. His ability has never been doubted, but his fitness issues have been a concern to supporters. On Thursday, he showed what Rangers fans expected of the Belgian, his intensity and work rate got the better of Premier League operators James Maddison and Rodrigo Bentancur. I would expect Rangers to set up similar to how they did against Spurs, with the same midfield two of Raskin and Diomande. This game is far too soon for Connor Barron; he is yet to show me anything he is worthy of a Rangers jersey personally. But I expect McGregor to lean on his experience and know-how in this fixture. I expect a frantic opening few minutes, and then McGregor will slowly drop five yards, start picking up the ball off the centre-backs and just slowly start dictating the play. For me, it is key that Rangers only let him play it side to side or backwards, they cannot allow Hatate or company time and space to turn and face the Rangers goal. If they can cut off McGregor’s passing lanes, they have a chance. Rejuvenated Rangers attack or CCV & Trusty excellence Hamza Igamane has been a revolution in the Rangers attack in recent weeks. His goals and work rate have been key in the Rangers uptick in form, now in pole position to overcome Aberdeen in second place. Alongside him, Vaclav Cerny put in a superb performance against Spurs on Thursday as he has started to replicate some of the form that was expected of him when he joined in the summer. Rangers have been a lot more free-flowing in recent weeks, with Clement seemingly finally finding a system that has unlocked the attacking talent at Ranger’s disposal. Dessers days seem to be numbered; he has only been making substitute appearances in recent weeks, with Clement opting for Danilo or Igamane through the middle. It would be harsh on Danilo to be dropped after his performances in recent weeks, but after the effective work of Jefte and Yilmaz on Thursday, it is now out of the question that Igamane starts today through the middle. In Celtic’s defence, however, they come up against Cameron Carter-Vickers and presumably Auston Trusty. The centre-back pairing has been key in Celtic’s defensive dominance this season, with Carter-Vickers by far and away the best centre-back in the league. Alistair Johnston is the one with a question mark hanging over his head. Taken off on Tuesday at half-time, it remains to be seen whether he is fit enough to start today. Arguably the best fullback in the league, he is one of the first names on the team sheet for Celtic. If he isn’t, Anthony Ralston is the natural replacement, and Rangers will have to hope their wingers can get more joy out of him and Greg Taylor than CCV or Trusty. Borussia Dortmund are effectively the only team to get the better of this defence, knocking seven past Celtic in Germany. Rangers will need to be at their very best if they hope to trouble

December 14, 2024

History on the line for Celtic and Rangers in Sunday’s League Cup final

Venue: Hampden Park Date: 15/12/24 Time: 15:30 Where to watch: The game is live on Premier Sports On Sunday, it is not merely a League Cup at stake but history as both sides sit neck and neck on a monumental 118 trophies. Celtic come in favourites as the country’s dominant force and their UCL results are indicative of a side that has taken its game to another level under Brendan Rodgers. However last year’s winners Rangers look to have turned a corner in recent weeks following a poor start to the campaign, undefeated since October and notching some impressive results of their own in the Europa League. How did we get here Celtic swotted all before them as they put Hibernian, Falkirk and Aberdeen to the sword, scoring fourteen goals en route to the final. Current cup holders Rangers meanwhile comfortably dispatched St Johnstone and Dundee but were given a scare in the semifinal at Hampden when Motherwell led at the break. Ultimately Cyriel Dessers and Nedim Bajrami’s goals were the difference, saving Philippe Clement from an embarrassing exit. Domestic steamrollers Celtic There is no question who the favourites are on this occasion. Celtic sit nine points clear at the top of the table, undefeated with the season yet to reach the halfway stage. A goal difference of 40+ is an astounding figure as the side continue to rotate with no noticeable impact on performance. Nicolas Kuhn looks a cut above in the league and his performance against RB Leipzig will have drawn eyes from across the continent. The German tops the Premiership’s assist charts and his 3.12 chances created per 90 bettered only by Paulo Bernardo’s 3.13. Yet behind every machine like performance is the mechanic who keeps everything ticking, and in Callum McGregor, Celtic have a player whose ability to recycle possession is just as dangerous as his eye for goal. With six league goals, the captain not only sits joint top of the charts but has put away a third of the shots he has taken so far. Victory on Sunday would bring a 23rd domestic trophy to place him just two off Celtic’s record holder Bobby Lennox. Igamane the face of revived Rangers This time last month, Hamza Igamane was afterthought in heated discussions concerning how Rangers could turn their dismal season around. Losses to Celtic, Kilmarnock and Aberdeen had made winning the title nigh on impossible after only ten games as Igamane had managed a solitary goal against FCSB. Four weeks on, the Moroccan looks set to play a starring role in helping his side retain the League Cup for the first time since 2011. With the oft-maligned Dessers guilty of missing too many clear-cut chances, Igamane had the opportunity to make the striker’s berth his own and it’s fair to say he has grabbed it with both hands. A double against Nice kickstarted a run of five goals in as many appearances, including a terrific finish in Thursday’s 1-1 draw with Tottenham. Perhaps more impressive than the finish, was the cross that led to it. James Tavernier’s whipped ball a timely reminder of the talent Britain’s highest ever goalscoring defender possesses. It has not been plain sailing for the club’s captain this season, having been a lightning rod for the ire of fans furious with a season that has left them below Aberdeen in the table. Dropped to the bench, Tavernier would have been forgiven for thinking this was the start of an ignominious end to a career that has seen the right-back amass 329 appearances, dating right back to their time in the Championship. Five trophies in ten years pales in comparison to McGregor but there is a strong case to be made that there could have been even fewer without his contributions over the years. Europe beginning to show wear and tear? Celtic have without a doubt exceeded expectations in Europe, suffering a solitary, albeit emphatic defeat to Borussia Dortmund. The extent of this raised bar crystallised in the disappointment from fans to have only earned a point away to Dinamo Zagreb. Come Sunday, Brendan Rodgers’ men will have almost averaged a game every three days. Much has been made of the squad depth the squad have, with Arne Engels, Liam Scales, Luke McCowan and Luis Palma just some of the options from the bench who would star in every other Premiership side. However the flatness of the draw in Croatia suggests a fatigue that may be just as much mental as it is physical. Most footballers not immune to the grinding machine of modern football and this League Cup final could prove one game too many in such a short space of time. Meanwhile, for all of their European success that has propelled them into the automatic places of the Europa League table, Rangers do not posses that same quality from the bench. Too many rotations are unlikely but fortunately Rangers have yet to show that midweek games produce a weakened weekend performance. So far Clement’s players have won each of the five games domestic games that have followed European fixtures. Although as the Belgian manager will be acutely aware, a cup final against Celtic is an entirely different different beast to tame. History favours Hoops Rangers may be some distance ahead when it comes to the League Cup with twenty-eight wins to Celtic’s twenty-one but the side from the East End have captured seven of the past ten. What is perhaps more prescient to this tie is Rodgers’ own record versus Rangers. In nineteen games the Northern Irishman has lost just one Glasgow derby, winning an impressive fifteen. Celtic were winners in

December 14, 2024

Stalemate in Zagreb for the Hoops

Dinamo and Celtic settled for a draw in Zagreb, which sees them both stay in the play-off places. Before the match, Dinamo were one point behind Celtic in the table. Both sides knew that victory would give them a strong likelihood of making the play-offs at the end of the European league campaign. The two teams defended well and battled hard in a game that brandished many yellow cards, particularly in the first half. The game lacked clear-cut chances and the draw was a fair result. The home side came into the match with a serious injury crisis and were missing key players. However, their rising star, Martin Baturina, 21, hailed as the next Luka Modric, looked to deliver something special in the middle of the park. The only significant but unsurprising change for the Glasgow visitors was the selection of Paulo Bernardo over their record signing Arne Engels in midfield alongside Callum McGregor and Reo Hatate. First half: Celtic started well in the first half, with the home side playing like the away team. The Hoops did well in keeping possession, although they could count themselves lucky not going down to 10 men early on following a dangerous tackle by Greg Taylor. It maybe lacked the intensity and force required to see red but they’ve been given. The visitors’ first chance of the game came from an incisive pass from Kuhn into McGregor on the edge of the area. It led to a free kick after the referee blew for handball when a Zagreb player blocked the captain’s pass. Bernardo took the ball and fired directly over the bar. Maybe it was too close to the goal to get it up and over the tall Zagreb wall. The next big moment of the game came when Nicolas Kuhn had some space on the right, inside the box, delivering a cross that a well-spread keeper, Danijel Zagorac, met and deflected behind for a corner. Following the attack, Sandro Kulenovic fell into Alistair Johnson, fouling him. After some complaints from Marko Rog, the referee decided to put both players into the book. Just before the half concluded, Zagreb capitalised on a Celtic mistake. Kulenovic fired a shot wide of the post after a cross was delivered in. A warning shot to Celtic that they needed to stay focused. Then, it was Celtic’s turn for some last-minute pressure, pushing forward when Maeda delivered a cross into the box for Bernardo, whose first touch let him down. After the play, Hatate managed to get on the ball after a quick Celtic counter-press on the edge of the area, and many fans would have been urging him to shoot, yet he got caught in two minds and played a powerful pass to his right that went to no one. Second half: At the beginning of the second half, Tony Ralston was subbed on for right-back Johnston after he felt the effects of the tackle in the first half. Bernardo won the ball down the right with a sliding tackle that fell into the substitute’s path. Ralston played an early ball down the right to Kuhn who managed to get past his marker inside the box and cut inside onto his left. His curling effort was deflected behind for a corner. The Croatian side was next to apply some pressure following some turnovers, with Celtic losing the ball too easily. Pjaca received the ball onto his right foot, striking at goal, only for Auston Trusty to block the shot. Straight after, Taylor had a major miscue by slicing at the ball, which saw the ball fall to Baturina outside the area. He launched tame strike that Kasper Schmeichel saved comfortably. The game began to open, and now it was Celtic’s turn. Bernardo played a short corner, and after a brief passing exchange, Kuhn slid a ball down the right into Bernardo’s path, who crossed to the front post, where Kyogo struck the ball into the keeper. It rebounded back into Cameron Carter-Vicker’s path, who, leaning back too much, shot high and wide. Next, it was up the other end, with Baturina getting a shot off over the bar. The home side, having started the second half the much stronger of the two sides, gave encouragement for the fans who were now in full voice. Unsurprisingly, Rodgers acted early following this spell of pressure by making two changes in the midfield, with McCowan and Engels coming onto the pitch for Hatate and Bernardo. A few minutes after coming on, McCowan received the ball from a surging run from McGregor in the middle of the park before unleashing a strike on target with Zagorac claiming comfortably. With ten minutes to go, Mbuku slid the ball down the right for the hosts into their right-back Ristovski, who lofted the ball into the box to Pjaca. He headed towards the goal, where a concentrated Schmeichel tipped it over the bar. In the concluding moments, Celtic gained attacking momentum and showed a moment of quality with their last chance of the game. Forrest penetrated the host’s defence with a terrific pass down the left of the box to an onrushing Engels, who whipped a ball across the box to Idah. The Zagreb defender managed to stick out a leg and clear the ball away from the Irishman. What a crucial and excellent interception. The game ended in a draw, which is a fair result, given both teams’ chances. In their remaining European ties, Zagreb have two challenging games against Milan and Arsenal. Celtic know that a result at home to Young Boys will likely secure them qualification to the next stage of the Champions League. Celtic also have a League Cup final to look forward to against their Old Firm rivals, Rangers, at the weekend. Post-match reaction: Auston Trusty on TNTSports: “We’ll take the point, but we came here for three points and I think we’ll be pretty upset in the locker room. “We’ve got two more games to

December 10, 2024

Celtic

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