Celtic captain Callum McGregor believes his side could have been more ruthless in front of goal during their dominant 3-0 victory over Rangers on Sunday afternoon.
McGregor played a pivotal role as the Hoops eased past their city rivals, a win that has propelled them five points clear of Rangers after just four games in the league season.
The performance was a commanding one, with Celtic demonstrating their superiority in Scottish football. However, in McGregor’s view, the scoreline could have been even more emphatic.
Despite finding the net himself with a stunning strike 15 minutes from time, McGregor felt there were missed opportunities to add further goals.
Reo Hatate, for instance, should have done better when the ball fell to him at the back post, while Paulo Bernardo’s weak effort in first-half stoppage time lacked the power needed to trouble the Rangers defence.
Reflecting on the match, McGregor said: “The performance, quality of goals, quality of defending, the way the team worked for each other, it had a bit of everything and we were probably unlucky not to get more goals.”
While McGregor was pleased with the overall display, he acknowledged that there is room for improvement in terms of finishing.
“I think we’re a good side. I think Rangers are a good side as well, they probably have a little bit more possession than what they have had in previous games. But there’s more than one way to win a football match, and especially in transition today, I thought we were outstanding.”
McGregor highlighted Celtic’s effectiveness on the break, noting how dangerous they were in transition.
“We were so dangerous, got three, probably could have got four or five really if we look after the ball in that transition moment.”
Celtic’s start to the 2024/25 season has been near-perfect. They have yet to concede a goal in the league and are sweeping aside domestic opposition with ease. However, their mettle will soon be tested on a bigger stage as the Champions League looms.
The group stage draw appears favourable for the Hoops, but it includes a recent Champions League finalist, the current Europa League winners, and two Europa Conference League semi-finalists from last season.
How Celtic navigate these challenges will be fascinating, especially given the evident improvements they’ve made from last term.
As Celtic continue to build momentum, their ability to be clinical in front of goal could be the key to success both domestically and in Europe.