Celtic return to knockout football this evening as they welcome Falkirk to Celtic Park in the League Cup Round of 16. Kick-off is at 7:45pm, with coverage on Premier Sports 1, Premier Sports Player, and for overseas fans on Celtic TV.
The Hoops are defending the trophy they lifted last year and face a Falkirk side relishing their first campaign back in the Premiership after a long spell away. For Brendan Rodgers, the challenge lies in fielding a side strong enough to secure passage while also keeping key players fresh for the looming Champions League showdown later this week.
Falkirk will arrive with nothing to lose, drawing inspiration from their Premiership return and hoping experience can keep them competitive on the big stage. Yet Celtic will want to put the tie beyond doubt early, ensuring no distraction from their midweek European task.
Rodgers is expected to rotate while maintaining strength across the pitch. Kasper Schmeichel is tipped to start in goal, protected by a backline of Kieran Tierney, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Jahmai Simpson-Pusey, and Alistair Johnston. Captain Callum McGregor should anchor the midfield alongside Luke McCowan and Benjamin Nygren, offering balance and control in the engine room.
In attack, James Forrest’s experience may be paired with the relentless pace of Daizen Maeda and the physical presence of Adam Idah. It is a line-up built both for dominance and efficiency, with ample depth waiting on the bench.
Celtic’s defence of the League Cup begins tonight, and a convincing performance could send a message: Hampden remains firmly in sight. More importantly, it could provide the momentum needed for Wednesday’s decisive Champions League qualifier against Kairat Almaty.