Celtic FC will host Motherwell at Celtic Park on December 26, 2024, kicking off at 3 p.m. local time. This Boxing Day encounter is significant for both teams as Celtic aims to recover from their recent draw against Dundee United, hoping to extend their unbeaten league run.
The festive football calendar is always intense, and for Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers, this match presents the perfect opportunity to entertain the home crowd post-Christmas. "We weren't clinical enough against Dundee United. It's a new game for us. The boys have been absolutely brilliant, it's just taking the game to the extra level," said Rodgers during the pre-match briefing.
Meanwhile, Motherwell, managed by Stuart Kettlewell, finds themselves sitting comfortably in fourth place and they are eager to capitalize on every point as they strive to challenge for European qualification. Despite their recent solid performances, Motherwell has struggled against Celtic historically, having not won against them since December 2015.
The Celtic manager has to navigate several injury concerns for this match. While Cameron Carter-Vickers and Auston Trusty are expected back from illness, James Forrest and Nicolas Kühn will miss the game due to injuries. Kettlewell also faces complications with his squad as striker Zach Robinson is sidelined with Achilles surgery, and Dan Casey, who was suspended, returns after appealing his red card.
Expectations are high as Celtic pushes for victory at home, where they have been particularly strong, winning their last three matches without conceding any goals. The Bhoys remain unbeaten at home for the past 24 games, and this match marks their first Boxing Day home game since 2010.
Motherwell aims to implement tight defensive tactics to frustrate Celtic, and both teams are set for intense competition. Celtic features Kasper Schmeichel as goalkeeper, supported by defenders Greg Taylor, Liam Scales, and Carter-Vickers. Midfielders Callum McGregor, Reo Hatate, and Paulo Bernardo are expected to dominate the center, with Adam Idah, Daizen Maeda, and Yang likely leading the attack.
Celtic's rich history against Motherwell reveals their dominance; the Hoops have won 27 out of their last 32 matches. Yet, the Steelmen hope to shock the favorites by finding ways to break through Celtic's line. Kettlewell will count on players like Tony Watt to provide the necessary firepower to upset the Highland club at their own stadium.
Kettlewell remarked on the festive spirit of the season, stating, "This Christmas we will all be together at Celtic Park and today the players and staff will be working hard...to bring you a performance and result." His words reflect not just the team’s aspirations but the festive joy around the game, which Schuln will be palpable among the supporters.
The stakes are high, not just for pride but for points as the league progresses. Celtic sits at the top of the table, but with Rangers breathing down their necks, every match counts. Today's showdown could increase the gap or tighten the challenge at the top, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
Both teams know what’s at stake. For Celtic, it’s all about maintaining momentum and claiming all three points, especially at home, where the fans expect nothing less than victory on such special days. Motherwell, eager to disrupt the status quo and improve their standing, will not back down easily, setting the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating game!
