Saint Mirren VS Celtic FC Preview

Scottish Premier League - Saint Mirren VS Celtic FC
Match Time: 03-01-2024 01:00 Wednesday (GMT+8)
Football Livescore | Match Prediction & Tips
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Head-to-Head:
Celtic has struggled in recent visits to Paisley, failing to secure a victory in four out of their last 12 trips. Although they managed a convincing 5-1 win in their last visit to the SMISA Stadium, it came after St Mirren took the lead and had a player sent off. Earlier this season, Celtic won 2-1 at home, with a late winner from substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu.

Team Analysis:
With Rangers having two games in hand, this upcoming match is crucial for Celtic in the title race. Brendan Rodgers' team cannot afford any more setbacks after dropping 12 points in games against other Premiership sides. St Mirren had a strong start to the season, holding the third position, but a slump resulted in only three wins in 15 games. However, they bounced back with a notable 3-0 away victory against Aberdeen, putting them just four points behind Hearts in third place. St Mirren had success against Celtic last season, winning 2-0 in Paisley and drawing 2-2 at Parkhead, instilling confidence in their ability to challenge Celtic again before the winter break.

Both teams have scored in the last four meetings, and with Cameron Carter-Vickers and Stephen Welsh sidelined for Celtic, I anticipate another high-scoring encounter.

Maik Nawrocki is expected to start in defense for Celtic, and despite his rawness and tendency to dive into challenges, he will be a key player. Celtic dominated the corner count 12-2 in the previous matchup this season, consistently amassing double figures against teams set up to frustrate. Their impressive 23 corners in the last road trip to Dundee suggest that betting on Celtic corners could be lucrative once again.

Pick: Both teams to score