Celtic began their Scottish Premiership title defence with a 1-0 home victory over Dundee on Tuesday, securing three points thanks to a second-half goal from Swedish midfielder Benjamin Nygren. The match marked the debut of the club’s record signing, Danish forward Kasper Hogh, who failed to find the net despite several early opportunities.
The game kicked off with celebrations as Celtic captain Callum McGregor unfurled the flag commemorating the club’s 14th league title in 15 seasons, highlighting Celtic’s dominance in recent years. However, the defending champions struggled to assert control in the early stages, with Dundee’s well-organized defense and aerial threat causing problems. The visitors’ strategy featured multiple crosses and throw-ins, creating scoring chances including headers by Charlie Reilly and Owen Bevan that narrowly missed the target.
Hogh, who joined Celtic from Bodo/Glimt for a reported £11 million, had an opening moment in the ninth minute when Nygren set him up, but he scuffed his shot wide. He came close again when he redirected a Nygren effort past the post but was unable to capitalize. Alongside Hogh, striker Camilo Duran, signed from Qarabag for £5.5 million, also made his debut, but neither newcomer managed to change the scoreline.
The deadlock was broken just after halftime when Kieran Tierney delivered a cross from the left flank, allowing Nygren to head the ball past Dundee goalkeeper Owen Goodman, who was making his season-long loan debut from Crystal Palace. The goal eased Celtic’s nerves and galvanized the home crowd, who had witnessed a somewhat sluggish performance up to that point.
Following the opening goal, Celtic pressed for a second but were met with resilient opposition and some fine goalkeeping from Goodman. Dundee substitute Ashley Hay came close to equalizing with a glancing header that was superbly saved by Celtic keeper Viljami Sinisalo. Further chances for Hogh and McGregor fell short, with McGregor’s shot hitting the woodwork and a rebound opportunity wasted by substitute James Forrest.
Manager Martin O’Neill acknowledged the team's underwhelming showing but praised the commitment of his forwards. He also hinted at possible tactical changes to better integrate his new signings, mentioning that formations such as a 4-4-2 or 3-5-2 might suit Hogh and Duran more effectively than the current 4-3-3 setup. O’Neill emphasized the need for additional wingers to supply Celtic’s striking options, noting the challenges of having “two lethal weapons without any ammunition.”
Nygren, who scored 21 goals last season and was a key figure in Sweden’s World Cup campaign, remains a central figure for Celtic’s ambitions both domestically and in the upcoming Champions League qualifiers. Despite speculation linking him with a summer transfer, O’Neill indicated that the club is in no hurry to sell their talisman this season.
The match demonstrated both the strengths and shortcomings of Celtic’s current squad as they seek a sixth consecutive league title amid growing expectations and the pressure to reinforce their ranks effectively.