(Credit: Imago)

Jack Dawson

Mon 2 March 2026 19:00, UK Updated Mon 2 March 2026 19:27, UK

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Celtic make the trip to Aberdeen in a crucial clash in the race for the Scottish Premiership title on Wednesday.

The match is a chance for the Hoops to leapfrog Rangers in the table as they prepare to play their game in hand after the fixture against the Dons was previously postponed.

Celtic’s title hopes have received a series of blows in recent weeks after their defeat against Hibernian and then their draw against Rangers on Sunday.

As a result, a win against Aberdeen is highly important, especially as it could push the Hoops to within five points of Hearts at the summit.

Therefore, Martin O’Neill is expected to make a couple of changes to his lineup ahead of the match, with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain dropping out of the starting XI after his struggles against the Gers.

Next Up | Celtic under the Pittodrie lights.

Join us on Wednesday ⤵️

🎟️ https://t.co/YFf192ZSad pic.twitter.com/LaTlgC5kXU

— Aberdeen FC (@AberdeenFC) March 2, 2026

• Read more: Sources: Celtic work on defender signing as plans emerge for next season

Reo Hatate set to return to Celtic’s starting XI vs Aberdeen

On Sunday, it quickly became clear that Oxlade-Chamberlain was not the answer against Rangers.

As a result, Reo Hatate was brought on for the former Liverpool star at half-time, and the midfielder completely changed the game.

Therefore, despite the Japan international’s recent underwhelming form, he must be allowed to return to the lineup against the Dons.

Going into the game, O’Neill is expected to keep the same backline and goalkeeper.

Which would mean Viljami Sinisalo starts in goal, with Julian Araujo and Kieran Tierney as the full-backs, and Dane Murray partnering Liam Scales as the centre-backs.

Into midfield, Oxlade-Chamberlain drops out for Hatate, who partners Callum McGregor in the centre, while Benjamin Nygren remains the attacking midfielder.

In attack, Sebastian Tounekti comes in for Daizen Maeda, while Junior Adamu remains the sole striker, and Yang Hyun-Jun keeps his place on the right wing.

• Read more: ‘Absolute clown’ – Rangers fans want Danny Rohl sacked ‘immediately’ after scenes vs Celtic

How to watch Aberdeen vs Celtic

Aberdeen’s match against Celtic is set to be shown live in the UK via Sky Sports Football.

Kick-off is at 8pm, and the game can be livestreamed via the Sky Sports app, which is available on many tablets, laptops and smartphones.

Radio coverage is also available via BBC Radio Scotland Extra, with coverage set to begin at 7pm.

Highlights of the game will be published shortly after the full-time whistle via the SPFL YouTube channel.

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