Celtic delivered a dominant performance at Parkhead, thrashing Aberdeen 5-1 as Brendan Rodgers’ side returned to winning ways in emphatic fashion.
Rodgers fielded a strong starting XI, aiming to bounce back from recent setbacks against Jimmy Thelin’s Aberdeen. The visitors started brightly, creating a few early chances that forced Kasper Schmeichel into action, with the Danish goalkeeper making a crucial save to keep the scores level.
However, Celtic soon took control of the game. Daizen Maeda broke the deadlock in the 25th minute, capitalizing on a rebound to give the Hoops the lead. Jota doubled the advantage with a mishit shot that found the bottom right corner, and captain Callum McGregor added a third just before halftime.
Hyunjun Yang extended Celtic’s lead with a well-taken fourth goal, and although Aberdeen managed a consolation strike late in the game, Maeda sealed the victory with his second goal of the match, restoring Celtic’s four-goal cushion just before the final whistle.
Here are 67 Hail Hail’s player ratings from Celtic’s commanding Scottish Premiership win over Aberdeen:
Kasper Schmeichel – 6
The Danish goalkeeper was solid overall, keeping another clean sheet and making a crucial early save. However, his poor distribution nearly cost Celtic, and he was beaten at his near post for Aberdeen’s consolation goal.
Jeffrey Schlupp – 7
Schlupp, making his second Scottish Premiership start since joining in January, was dependable in defense. He made a vital first-half header to disrupt an Aberdeen counterattack that could have been dangerous.
Auston Trusty – 6
The US defender was reliable and composed, forming a strong partnership with Cameron Carter-Vickers at the heart of Celtic’s defense.
Alistair Johnston – 6
The Canadian was his usual steady self on the right flank, making key interceptions to neutralize Aberdeen’s attacking threats.
Callum McGregor (c) – 8
The captain controlled the midfield with his composure and leadership. After an early missed chance, he scored Celtic’s third goal, his eighth of the season, just before halftime.
Reo Hatate – 7
The Japanese midfielder was energetic and creative, delivering crisp passes and creating three chances before being substituted in the 59th minute.
Arne Engels – 9
The Belgian was outstanding, contributing two assists for Jota and McGregor’s goals. Engels also created six chances, playing a pivotal role in Celtic’s dominant display.
Nicolas Kuhn – 6
The German winger had a quieter game, with most of Celtic’s attacks focused on the left flank. He swapped positions with Jota in the first half to get more involved but was substituted in the 59th minute.
Jota – 8
The Portuguese winger was in fine form, using his pace and direct running to trouble Aberdeen’s defense. He capped his performance with a well-taken goal.
Daizen Maeda – 9
The Japanese winger continued to thrive in his new role, scoring twice to take his season tally to 25 goals. His relentless pressing caused numerous problems for Aberdeen’s defense.
Substitutes:
Luke McCowan (sub) – 7
Dropped to the bench, McCowan made an immediate impact, playing a key role in setting up Yang’s goal. He remains a valuable option off the bench.
Hyunjun Yang (sub) – 7
The South Korean came on to score his second goal of the season and looked lively, creating another chance during his time on the pitch.
Adam Idah (sub) – 6
Replacing Kuhn in the 59th minute, Idah had a quiet outing, managing just one shot on goal.
Jude Bonnar (sub) – 6
The young midfielder made his senior debut in the 80th minute but had little time to influence the game. A promising talent for the future.
Liam Scales (sub) – 5
Coming on for Schlupp with ten minutes remaining, Scales could have done better to prevent Aberdeen’s consolation goal.
