Match Preview: Celtic vs Kilmarnock - Analysis & Insights

Match Preview: Celtic vs Kilmarnock - Analysis & Insights

Celtic are set to kick off their 2024-25 Scottish Premiership title defence with a home game against Kilmarnock at Celtic Park on Sunday. After a successful campaign last season, which saw them clinch their 54th top-flight title, the Bhoys will look to maintain their dominance in Scottish football. Meanwhile, Kilmarnock, who secured a respectable fourth-place finish last season, will be aiming to make a statement against the champions.

Celtic vs Kilmarnock Standings

Celtic finished the previous season at the summit of the Scottish Premiership with 93 points from 38 games, solidifying their position as Scotland's top team. They boasted the best attack, with 95 goals, and the best defence, conceding only 30 times. Kilmarnock ended their campaign in fourth place, amassing 56 points and securing a spot in the Europa League qualifiers. Despite their early exit from Europe this summer, Kilmarnock will be eager to build on their domestic success.

Form in the last 5 games:

• Celtic: W, W, W, W, D
• Kilmarnock: L, D, W, W, L

Celtic vs Kilmarnock Head to Head

The last five meetings between these sides have seen a mix of results:

• February 2024: Celtic 1-1 Kilmarnock
• December 2023: Kilmarnock 2-1 Celtic
• August 2023: Celtic 2-0 Kilmarnock
• April 2023: Kilmarnock 0-4 Celtic
• January 2023: Celtic 2-0 Kilmarnock

Kilmarnock managed to take four points off Celtic last season, including a memorable 2-1 win at home.

Celtic vs Kilmarnock Top Scorers

Celtic:

• Matt O'Riley - 19 goals
• Kyogo Furuhashi - 19 goals
• Daizen Maeda - 10 goals

Kilmarnock:

• Marley Watkins - 13 goals
• Kyle Vassell - 11 goals
• Danny Armstrong - 9 goals

Celtic vs Kilmarnock Team News

Celtic:
Celtic may be without new signing Paulo Bernardo, who is still working on his fitness levels following his transfer from Benfica. Maik Nawrocki, who missed the entire pre-season tour of the United States, is a doubt despite returning to training. Kasper Schmeichel, recently signed, could be set for his first competitive start. Midfielder Matt O'Riley's future has been uncertain, but his quality makes him a likely starter.

Kilmarnock:
Kilmarnock will be missing defender Joe Wright, who was forced off with an injury in their Europa League qualifier against Cercle Brugge. Robbie Deas is suspended, further depleting their defensive options. However, Oliver Bainbridge, who recently joined on loan from Sunderland, could make his debut.

Celtic vs Kilmarnock Predicted Line-ups

Celtic

• GK: Kasper Schmeichel
• DF: Anthony Ralston, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Liam Scales, Greg Taylor
• MF: Matt O'Riley, Callum McGregor, Reo Hatate
• FW: Rocco Kuhn, Kyogo Furuhashi, Luis Palma

Kilmarnock

• GK: Robby McCrorie
• DF: Lewis Mayo, Jeriel Lyons, Stuart Findlay, Oliver Bainbridge
• MF: Rory McKenzie, Liam Donnelly, David Watson
• FW: Danny Armstrong, Kyle Vassell, Fraser Murray

Celtic vs Kilmarnock Player to Watch

Kyogo Furuhashi (Celtic)
As Celtic's top scorer last season, Furuhashi will be the key player to watch. His knack for finding the back of the net, combined with his movement and finishing ability, makes him a constant threat, especially in front of the home crowd.

Where Can I Watch Celtic vs Kilmarnock?

The match will be broadcast live in the UK on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football. Fans can also stream the game via the Sky Go app. If you're unable to watch live, highlights will be available on the BBC Sport website after the match.