Celtic Dominates Kilmarnock 4-0 in Scottish Premiership Opener

Celtic started their pursuit of a fourth consecutive Scottish Premiership title in style, defeating Kilmarnock 4-0 on Sunday. Brendan Rodgers’ team, who finished eight points ahead of Rangers last season, demonstrated why they are favorites to retain their title.

The reigning champions, aiming for their 55th Scottish title, dominated from the outset at Parkhead. Japan’s Reo Hatate opened the scoring in the 17th minute with a powerful strike from the edge of the box. Liam Scales extended the lead with a header from Matt O’Riley’s corner just before halftime.

Denmark’s Kasper Schmeichel debuted for Celtic in goal, replacing the injured Daizen Maeda. Kilmarnock, with several key players rested for their upcoming UEFA Conference League qualifier, struggled to contain Celtic’s relentless attack.

Nicolas Kuhn’s deflected shot made it 3-0 in the 59th minute, and substitute Anthony Ralston sealed the win with a stoppage-time goal. The victory placed Celtic ahead of St Mirren on goal difference at the top of the table.

Rodgers expressed satisfaction with the performance, emphasizing the importance of starting the season strong. “Being at the top of the league at the end of the season is what’s important but the first steps are critical and we made a really good step today,” he said.

Jim Craig, a European Cup winner with Celtic in 1967, unfurled the Premiership champions’ flag before kickoff, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

In other matches, Dundee secured a 2-2 draw against arch-rivals Dundee United, thanks to a late penalty by captain Luke McCowan. St Mirren followed their midweek European success with a 3-0 win over Hibernian, with Roland Idowu and Oisin Smyth scoring to maintain their momentum.