Celtic sits atop the Scottish league table with five wins in their first five matches, a record that might suggest a smooth season ahead. However, a closer examination of recent performances reveals underlying defensive frailties that have been exposed in both domestic and European fixtures.
While the team's offensive capabilities have been a source of strength, with new signings like Camilo Duran and Kasper Hogh bolstering the attack, the defense remains a significant concern. This was evident in their recent 2-1 victory over St. Mirren, where the opposition registered 19 shots on goal. St. Mirren had opportunities to secure a point or even more, ultimately falling short due to missed chances and Celtic's ability to capitalize on moments of quality.
Celtic conceded a penalty in the first half after a Liam Scales handball, though Scales later equalized with a header. Yang Hyun-jun scored the decisive goal, his breakaway strike highlighting Celtic's attacking potential. However, the match also saw two Celtic goals disallowed by VAR for offside, with questions raised about the technology's accuracy in the Scottish Premiership.
The team's defensive issues were starkly illustrated in their Champions League exit to LASK, where they conceded a combined 60 shots over two legs. Even in the home leg, a 3-0 victory, they faced 20 shots on their own goal. This pattern suggests that against higher-caliber opponents, Celtic's defense appears particularly vulnerable.
Manager Martin O'Neill praised Liam Scales, who deputized at left-back, but noted struggles for other members of the back four. Auston Trusty and Colby Donovan, in particular, faced difficulties, with Donovan booked early and struggling to contain St. Mirren's pace. The lack of a dedicated defensive midfielder and a top-tier center-back to partner Cameron Carter-Vickers are seen as critical gaps.
Celtic's upcoming fixtures, including an Old Firm derby and the start of their Europa League campaign against Ferencvaros, will provide a more rigorous test of their current form. The draw in the Europa League includes matches against Benfica, Celta Vigo, Besiktas, and Marseille. While the second-tier competition offers a more realistic chance for a deep run than the Champions League, persistent defensive weaknesses could hinder progress.
The team's ability to score freely has papered over defensive cracks, but titles are typically won by sides that are strong at both ends of the pitch. Until these structural uncertainties are addressed with greater consistency, Celtic may find themselves on precarious footing, despite their strong start to the domestic season. The central question remains whether any Scottish team can mount a sustained challenge against this flawed, yet currently successful, Celtic side.