Celtic faces pressure ahead of Old Firm derby after poor results
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 18, 2026, 11:03 AM
Last updated Sep 18, 2026
Celtic's confidence is shaken heading into the Old Firm derby on Sunday after a disappointing start to the Europa League campaign, losing 3-1 to Ferencvaros at home. Former midfielder Scott Allan highlights their vulnerability, noting a lack of response following a 3-0 defeat to Rangers in the Premier Sports Cup. Allan emphasizes the importance of the opening goal for Celtic's morale, suggesting that their body language and enthusiasm have been lacking in recent performances. If Celtic can secure a win, they would extend their lead over Rangers to eight points before the international break.
- •Celtic lost 3-1 to Ferencvaros in their Europa League opener.
- •They were previously defeated 3-0 by Rangers in the Premier Sports Cup.
- •Scott Allan notes Celtic's lack of response and defensive vulnerabilities.
- •The opening goal is deemed crucial for confidence in the upcoming derby.
- 11:03 AMYahoo Sports — Celtic 'balloon burst' and 'miles off it' before next derby
"Celtic are "miles off where they would expect to be", according to former Parkhead midfielder Scott Allan, who reckons the opening goal will be more vital than ever for their fragile confidence in Sunday's Old Firm derby. Speaking on the BBC's Scottish Football Podcast, he was surprised at the lack of response from Martin O'Neill's side after the weekend's 3-0 Premier Sports Cup defeat by Rangers at Ibrox as they lost 3-1 in their Europa League opener at home to Ferencvaros. "The season started off quite promisingly for Celtic, Europe aside, and then, after that kind of early promise, the balloon looks as though it's burst," Allan said.
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