Motherwell vs Celtic: Scottish Premiership Showdown at Fir Park – Team News, Lineups & Prediction

The Scottish Premiership Championship Group is set for another blockbuster midweek encounter as Motherwell welcome Celtic to Fir Park on Wednesday, 13 May. With both sides locked in a fierce battle for position and pride, this Round 37 clash promises high stakes, tactical intrigue, and plenty of drama. For Motherwell, a top-four finish is within touching distance, while Celtic are desperate to close the gap on the league leaders and secure second place. Here is your complete, expert preview of Motherwell vs Celtic.

Match Overview: The Context Behind the Clash

This fixture arrives at a pivotal moment in the 2025/26 Scottish Premiership season. Motherwell currently sit in 4th place with 58 points, enjoying a solid campaign under manager Jens Berthel Askou. Their recent form has been steady if unspectacular, highlighted by a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Hearts in their last outing. That result kept them ahead of the chasing pack, but Askou will know that a win against Celtic would be a major statement.

On the other side, Celtic are in 2nd place with 76 points, trailing the league leaders by a narrow margin. The Hoops come into this match on a high after a dominant 3-1 victory over Rangers in the Glasgow derby. That win was a huge psychological boost for Martin O’Neill’s side, who are now looking to build momentum and push for the title. However, with only a handful of games remaining, every point is precious.

The last meeting between these two sides ended in a 3-1 win for Celtic, but Motherwell have proven to be stubborn opponents at Fir Park. The Steelmen will be eager to avenge that defeat and disrupt Celtic’s rhythm.

Team News: Injuries and Key Absences

Injuries could play a significant role in shaping the outcome of this match. The most notable absence for Celtic is Kasper Schmeichel, who remains sidelined with a shoulder injury. The veteran Danish goalkeeper has been a commanding presence between the sticks this season, and his absence is a major blow. Backup keeper Benjamin Siegrist is expected to step in, but he will face a stern test against Motherwell’s attacking threats.

For Motherwell, there is good news on the injury front. Manager Jens Berthel Askou has a near fully-fit squad to choose from, with only long-term absentee Ross Tierney unavailable. This gives Askou the luxury of fielding his strongest XI, which could prove crucial in a game where energy and pressing will be key.

Key players to watch for Motherwell include Kevin van Veen, who has been in scintillating form this season, and Blair Spittal, whose creativity from midfield has been a driving force. For Celtic, all eyes will be on Kyogo Furuhashi and Matt O’Riley, who have been instrumental in their recent success.

Predicted Lineups: How the Teams Could Shape Up

Based on recent form and tactical preferences, here are the predicted starting XIs for both sides.

Motherwell Predicted XI (4-3-3)

• Goalkeeper: Liam Kelly
• Defenders: Stephen O’Donnell, Bevis Mugabi, Calum Butcher, Jake Carroll
• Midfielders: Sean Goss, Callum Slattery, Blair Spittal
• Forwards: Kevin van Veen, Mikael Mandron, Connor Shields

Askou is likely to stick with his trusted 4-3-3 formation, which provides defensive solidity while allowing width in attack. The midfield trio of Goss, Slattery, and Spittal will be tasked with breaking up Celtic’s play and launching quick counter-attacks.

Celtic Predicted XI (4-2-3-1)

• Goalkeeper: Benjamin Siegrist (in for the injured Schmeichel)
• Defenders: Alistair Johnston, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Carl Starfelt, Greg Taylor
• Midfielders: Callum McGregor, Reo Hatate
• Attacking Midfielders: Liel Abada, Matt O’Riley, Jota
• Striker: Kyogo Furuhashi

Martin O’Neill is expected to deploy his preferred 4-2-3-1 system, with McGregor and Hatate anchoring the midfield. The attacking trio of Abada, O’Riley, and Jota will look to exploit space behind Motherwell’s full-backs, while Kyogo’s movement will be a constant threat.

Expert Analysis: Tactical Battle and Key Matchups

This game is a classic clash of styles. Motherwell are a direct, physical side that thrives on set-pieces and second balls. Under Askou, they have developed a disciplined defensive structure, but their real strength lies in transition. Kevin van Veen’s ability to hold up play and bring others into the game will be vital, especially against a Celtic backline that can sometimes be caught out of position.

Celtic, by contrast, are a possession-dominant team that looks to control the tempo through Callum McGregor. The captain’s passing range and tactical intelligence are crucial to O’Neill’s system. However, the absence of Schmeichel means Celtic’s defense may lack its usual composure. Siegrist is a capable shot-stopper, but his distribution under pressure is a potential weakness that Motherwell could exploit.

The key battle will be in midfield. If Motherwell can disrupt McGregor’s rhythm and force turnovers, they can create chances on the break. However, if Celtic’s midfield trio of McGregor, Hatate, and O’Riley find their groove, they could dominate possession and starve Motherwell of the ball. Expect a high-energy contest, especially in the first 20 minutes, as both teams look to impose their game plan.

Prediction: Who Will Come Out on Top?

This is a difficult match to call. Motherwell have been excellent at home this season, losing just four times at Fir Park. Their resilience and physicality make them a tough opponent for any team. Celtic, meanwhile, have the quality and depth to overcome most challenges, but their recent defensive vulnerabilities—especially without Schmeichel—are a concern.

Historically, Celtic have dominated this fixture, winning 14 of the last 18 meetings. However, Motherwell have shown they can raise their game against the Old Firm, as evidenced by their 2-1 win over Rangers earlier in the season. The key factor here could be the psychological boost Celtic gained from beating Rangers. That result will have instilled confidence, but it could also lead to complacency if they underestimate Motherwell.

Prediction: Motherwell 1-2 Celtic

I expect a tight, competitive match with both teams scoring. Celtic’s superior individual quality, particularly in the final third, should be enough to edge it. However, Motherwell will push them all the way, and a draw would not be a surprise. If Celtic fail to handle the physical battle, Askou’s men could snatch a point or even all three.

Strong Conclusion: What’s at Stake?

As the Scottish Premiership season enters its final stretch, every result carries immense weight. For Motherwell, a win would all but secure fourth place and potentially set up a European qualification push. For Celtic, anything less than victory could see their title hopes fade, especially if rivals Rangers slip up. The atmosphere at Fir Park will be electric, with both sets of fans knowing the importance of this midweek showdown.

Ultimately, this match will come down to which team handles the pressure better. Celtic have the pedigree and the recent momentum, but Motherwell have the home advantage and the tactical discipline to cause an upset. Expect goals, drama, and a result that could shape the final standings. Don’t miss it.

Source: Based on news from Yahoo Sports.