Following their crucial 1-0 victory over rivals Rangers at Ibrox, Celtic headed into the international break with a comforting four-point cushion at the summit of the Premiership table.
While the Hoops faithful have every reason to be optimistic, the marathon season demands consistent performances.
To gauge what’s next for Brendan Rodgers’ side, let’s delve into Celtic’s forthcoming five fixtures.
1. Dundee – Home (League) – 16th September
Celtic kicks off their busy stretch with a league clash against Dundee at home. The Bhoys will be looking to cement their position at the top of the Scottish Premiership and cannot afford to drop points at Celtic Park. Historically, the Hoops have had the upper hand against Dundee, but complacency isn’t an option with the packed schedule ahead.
2. Feyenoord – Away (Champions League) – Tuesday, 19th September
Just days after their domestic face-off, Celtic travels to Rotterdam for a mouth-watering Champions League clash against Dutch giants, Feyenoord. This is set to be an electrifying contest, with both teams looking to get some points on the board in the first match. Celtic will need to be at their absolute best to navigate the intimidating atmosphere at the De Kuip stadium.
3. Livingston – Away (League) – Saturday 23rd September
The league action continues with a tricky away trip to Livingston. Almondvale Stadium has been a challenging venue for many Scottish Premiership sides in recent years, with Livingston known for their robust defensive setup and counter-attacking prowess. Historically, the Hoops have struggled here, but under Postecoglou Celtic managed to find a way to bring three points back to Glasgow comfortably more times than not, something Rodgers will look to replicate.
4. Motherwell – Away (League) – Saturday, 30th September
Motherwell awaits Celtic in another away league fixture, concluding September’s run of games. Stuart Kettlewell has done a magnificent job since taking over Motherwell and is one of the most on-form sides this callander year. It’ll be a tough place to visit for Celtic.
5. Lazio – Home (Champions League) – Wednesday, 4th October
Concluding the five-game stretch, Celtic welcomes Serie A heavyweights, Lazio, to Celtic Park. With the raucous home crowd behind them, the Hoops will be looking to make a statement in Europe, as they did when they faced the side in the Europa League a few years ago. It will be no easy match, with Lazio a better team now than they were then, under boss Maurizio Sarri.
