The Ibrox and Hampden Warning Celtic Must Address

It’s tight at the top of the league and every win matters between now and the end of the season, where games can be won and lost with fine margins , Celtic’s Achilles heel this season seems not to be a lack of skill or passion but something more controllable: in-game management. In the past few weeks, it has been particularly evident in matches against Rangers at Ibrox and Aberdeen at Hampden, showcasing a recurring theme of vulnerability that could threaten their title ambitions.

At Ibrox, Celtic demonstrated both their offensive prowess and their defensive fragility. After racing to a 2-0 lead, they appeared to be in control until a controversial penalty breathed life into Rangers, who managed to draw level. Even after Celtic regained the lead late on, their inability to close out the game allowed Rangers to snatch a late equaliser, ending the match in a 3-3 draw. The decision to bring on Yang, who lacked the physicality necessary to maintain possession and protect the lead, was a critical misstep by manager Brendan Rodgers. A misstep and lack of in-game management by the Irishman.

Similarly, against Aberdeen, Celtic showed resilience to overturn an early deficit, moving 2-1 up as the game neared its conclusion. However, lapses in defensive discipline once again surfaced. Aberdeen exploited these gaps, equalising late and pushing the game into extra time and eventually penalties. Although Celtic triumphed in the shootout to reach the Scottish Cup final, the pattern was clear: Celtic struggles to manage games effectively in critical moments.

This issue of game management — the ability to maintain a lead and control the flow and tempo of the match — is paramount. With only a slender lead in the league and a few games remaining, including a potential title decider against Rangers, Celtic must refine this aspect of their play. The team’s inability to suppress opposition comebacks could be detrimental in these final, crucial stages of the season.

Celtic’s season has been a rollercoaster of emotions, marked by brilliant comebacks and frustrating defeats. As the season heads into its climax, the focus must sharpen. The team needs to demonstrate that they can not only take the lead but also maintain it under pressure. This will be especially crucial in their upcoming matches, where every point is pivotal.