Celtic’s recent defeat in the Scottish Cup final against Aberdeen marked an unfamiliar low for manager Brendan Rodgers and captain Callum McGregor, who have rarely tasted such disappointment at Hampden.
The penalty shoot-out loss, with McGregor missing the opening kick, ended Celtic’s impeccable record in showpiece matches. This setback, described by McGregor as his toughest moment in football, has left the team grappling with a rare sense of failure.
The pain of the loss is unlikely to draw much sympathy from rival fans, given Celtic’s dominant hold over Scottish football.
Despite the defeat, both Rodgers and McGregor handled the aftermath with composure, speaking candidly moments after the match. McGregor, visibly emotional, was consoled by Rodgers, who acknowledged the team’s subpar performance.
The captain, one of the few Celtic players to shine in an otherwise lackluster game, admitted the sting of the loss would linger.
Rodgers didn’t shy away from critiquing his team’s display, noting its lack of quality and sluggish tempo. Too many players failed to reach their usual standards, a recurring issue since Celtic’s Champions League exit to Bayern Munich in February.
That loss seemed to dent their momentum, with subsequent defeats to Hibs, St Johnstone, Rangers, and now Aberdeen exposing vulnerabilities in a squad that had earlier seemed unstoppable.
The first half of the season saw Celtic dominate the Premiership and claim the Premier Sports Cup, building a cushion that allowed for some missteps. However, the Hampden defeat was a costly error they could ill afford.
A draw against St Mirren the previous week had already hinted at cracks in their armor, and the cup final loss has amplified concerns about the team’s current form.
With the Scottish Cup now out of reach, the pressure is mounting on Celtic’s board to provide Rodgers with the necessary funds to strengthen the squad. The transfer window is critical, as the team must prepare for a crucial Champions League playoff qualifier in mid-August.
While their seeded status offers some reassurance, another misstep could be disastrous. Recruitment must be precise, with reinforcements needed across defense, midfield, and attack to restore Celtic’s edge.
For Rodgers and his ambitious fanbase, standing still is not an option. The club must evolve swiftly to meet the demands of both domestic and European competition. Significant signings and strategic planning are essential to ensure Celtic regain their winning form and avoid further costly slip-ups in the months ahead.
