Celtic vs Falkirk Preview: Predictions, Team News, and Lineups

Celtic will host Falkirk this Sunday at Celtic Park for a Scottish Premiership clash. The match is part of matchday 24, with Celtic positioned third in the league with 45 points from 23 games. Falkirk, on the other hand, sits sixth with 33 points from the same number of fixtures.

Celtic’s Recent Struggles

The 2025-26 season has been turbulent for Celtic, marked by managerial instability. The club has had three different managers this season, including Martin O’Neill, who has returned to lead the team until the end of the term. Brendan Rodgers began the season but left in late October after failing to secure Champions League qualification and falling behind league leaders Hearts.

O’Neill’s interim tenure saw success, with seven wins and only one defeat in eight matches. However, his successor, Wilfried Nancy, struggled and parted ways with the club after only eight games, recording just two wins.

Celtic’s Current Form

Under O’Neill’s guidance, Celtic has shown improvement, winning four and drawing two of their last six games. Despite a recent 2-2 draw with Hearts, they are looking to regain momentum and close the gap on the league leaders. Celtic has won eight of their 11 home matches this season, giving them confidence going into this encounter.

Falkirk’s Resurgence

Falkirk returns to the Scottish Premiership after winning the Championship last season. Initially, they struggled, winning just one of their first seven matches. However, a turning point came with a 2-1 victory over Motherwell in matchday eight, which sparked a series of strong performances. In their last 16 league games, they have secured eight wins, three draws, and five losses.

Currently positioned sixth, Falkirk has a solid five-point cushion over seventh-placed Aberdeen and is only two points shy of Hibernian. They aim to maintain their positive trend, having won three of their last four games.

Previous Encounter

Falkirk’s last match against Celtic ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat, courtesy of a goal from Benjamin Nygren. This upcoming match provides them an opportunity for revenge as they travel to Celtic Park.

Team News

• Celtic Injuries: Alistair Johnston, Callum Osmand, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Jota, Marcelo Saracchi, and Auston Trusty (suspension) are unavailable.
• Falkirk Injuries: Filip Lissah, Gary Oliver, Ross MacIver, and Thomas Lang are sidelined due to injuries.

Predicted Lineups

Match Prediction

Based on recent performances, Celtic is favored to win, with a predicted score of 2-1. Despite Falkirk’s impressive run, Celtic’s home advantage and recent success against them bolster their chances for a crucial victory.