Aberdeen have been earning plaudits this season for their spirited performances, and it’s easy to see why.
Under Jimmy Thelin’s guidance, the Dons have managed to keep pace with Celtic in the Scottish Premiership, giving the Glasgow giants a run for their money.
But tonight’s Premier Sports Cup semi-final at Hampden Park proved a bridge too far for Aberdeen, as they were dismantled by an unstoppable Celtic side, who stormed to a commanding 6-0 victory.
From the first whistle, it was clear that Celtic meant business. Cameron Carter-Vickers opened the scoring with a powerful header, setting the tone for what was to follow.
Kyogo Furuhashi doubled the lead soon after, and Daizen Maeda made it three, effectively ending Aberdeen’s hopes before half-time.
There was no repeat of the defensive lapses that Celtic showed in their previous clash with Aberdeen at Parkhead; this was a controlled and clinical performance.
Celtic wasted no time after the break, with Maeda scoring his second of the night to make it 4-0.
Nicolas Kuhn joined the fray, adding to the scoreline, before Maeda completed his hat-trick, cementing a memorable night for the Hoops.
As Celtic breezed into the December cup final, they sent a clear message to Scottish football: Brendan Rodgers’ team is very much the one to beat.
Rodgers himself added a touch of drama, receiving a yellow card from the dugout, while a delayed kick-off due to a pyro display added to the evening’s theatrics.
Here’s how Celtic’s players rated as they dominated Aberdeen in every aspect of the game:
Kasper Schmeichel – 6
Had little to do but managed his distribution well, with Aberdeen rarely testing him.
Alistair Johnston – 7
Defensively solid, Johnston’s overlapping runs kept Aberdeen on the back foot. Assisted Maeda’s third with a precise cross.
Cameron Carter-Vickers – 7
Scored the opener and was rock-solid at the back. Subbed for a rest after an efficient performance.
Auston Trusty – 7
Won his battles easily, though he wasn’t challenged often, as Celtic dominated possession.
Alex Valle – 7
Chosen over Greg Taylor, Valle played confidently, linking well with Maeda on the left flank.
Callum McGregor – 8
Ran the midfield with authority, winning tackles and keeping Celtic’s tempo high.
Reo Hatate – 8
Controlled the game with his precise passing and positioning. Worked tirelessly, despite picking up a slight knock.
Arne Engels – 8
Balanced creativity with defensive work, making his mark in a crowded midfield.
Daizen Maeda – 10
A man of the match performance. Scored a hat-trick and contributed defensively, showing incredible work rate throughout.
Nicolas Kuhn – 8
Not his busiest night, but he assisted Maeda’s second and curled in a superb goal to make it 5-0.
Kyogo Furuhashi – 7
His movement off the ball caused problems all evening, and he was rewarded with a well-earned goal.
Substitutes
Greg Taylor – 4
Came on late, adding composure but little was required.
Liam Scales – 5
Made an immediate impact with a crucial block after coming on.
Paulo Bernardo – 5
Injected energy, looking to add to Celtic’s goal tally.
Adam Idah – 3
Limited involvement after his introduction.
James Forrest – 3
Showed promise with direct runs but couldn’t convert opportunities.
Celtic’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, and with this emphatic victory, they booked a place in the final, where they’ll be the clear favourites.
This dominant display serves as a reminder to Scottish football that Brendan Rodgers’ men are in formidable form, making them a daunting opponent for whoever emerges victorious between Rangers and Motherwell in the other semi-final.