Celtic Park was treated to a footballing masterclass this afternoon as the Hoops swept aside St Johnstone with a commanding 4-0 victory.
It was a performance that epitomised the current Celtic side: relentless, clinical, and bursting with quality across the pitch. The visitors barely had time to settle before the Hoops began asserting their authority, dictating the game with their characteristic attacking flair.
A First-Half Breakthrough
Celtic’s intent was clear from the off. Arne Engels, starting in midfield, pulled the strings early on with his clever movement and sharp passing. Within the opening 20 minutes, he had tested St Johnstone goalkeeper Josh Rae twice, forcing a fingertip save to deny what would have been a stunning opener.
The breakthrough came on the half-hour mark. Reo Hatate, back to his scintillating best, intercepted a loose ball in midfield and drove forward before sliding a perfectly weighted pass to Nicolas Kühn. The German winger, a revelation this season danced past his marker and rifled a low shot into the net.
Second Half Onslaught
If the first half was a show of control, the second half was all about dominance. Kyogo Furuhashi, doubled the lead in the 59th minute. A corner routine saw Paulo Bernardo’s shot parried into the path of the Japanese star, who made no mistake from close range. Just five minutes later, Kyogo struck again, this time converting Arne Engels’ pinpoint cross to effectively kill the game.
With St Johnstone’s resistance broken, Celtic turned the match into a routine win. The fourth goal was a thing of beauty, highlighting the fluidity and precision that has become the hallmark of Rodgers’ side. Bernardo’s incisive through ball split the defence, finding Daizen Maeda in space. The Japanese winger took a touch before slotting the ball into the bottom corner, capping off a sensational display.
Key Performances Shine Bright
Paulo Bernardo deserves special mention. The Portuguese midfielder has grown in influence with every game, and this outing was arguably his best yet in a Celtic shirt. His vision, energy, and ability to pick a pass were instrumental in unlocking the St Johnstone defence time and again.
Similarly, Arne Engels was a standout performer. The summer signing has proven to be an inspired signing in recent games, combining technical brilliance with a tireless work ethic. His contributions in attack and defence ensured Celtic’s midfield dominance.
At the back, Cameron Carter-Vickers marshalled the defence with his usual authority, ensuring that Kasper Schmeichel had little to do apart from routine stops.
Eyes on the Bigger Prize
For Brendan Rodgers, this win was a statement of intent. With the January transfer window on the horizon and the title race seemingly under control, attention may soon turn to European ambitions and reinforcing the squad for tougher challenges ahead.
