Celtic will play in the Scottish Cup this weekend as they face Hibernian in the quarterfinals at home.
Brendan Rodgers’ team won the cup last season and is determined to keep the trophy. Their next challenge is Sunday’s match against Hibs (kick-off: 3 pm). This will be the fifth time the teams meet this season, with Celtic winning three of the last four games.
Looking ahead to the game, Rodgers said:
“We’re excited. It should be a great match with an amazing atmosphere.
“This game will feel different from the one a few weeks ago. The energy will be different, and we expect a tough challenge, but Hibs will find it difficult too.
“Hibs are well organized now, much better than at the start of the season. They have a clear playing style and some dangerous players, so we need to be at our best to reach the semi-finals.”
With around 7,000 Hibs fans traveling to Glasgow, the atmosphere at Celtic Park will be intense. However, with 53,000 Celtic fans supporting their team, Rodgers believes the home crowd will make a big difference.
“Hibs are in good form, so their fans will be excited. That will also motivate our supporters, making the atmosphere even better.
“We love playing at home, and with over 50,000 fans behind us, we’re determined to reach Hampden.”
Celtic is the most successful team in Scottish Cup history, winning the trophy 42 times. Their first win was in 1892, and the most recent was in 2024.
Manager Brendan Rodgers also has an amazing record in the competition. He has led Celtic in 19 Scottish Cup matches—and won all of them, lifting the trophy three times at Hampden.
His winning streak started in January 2017 with a 3-0 victory over Albion Rovers. Now, he hopes to continue that success with a win against Hibernian on Sunday.
“Since I first arrived in 2016, I’ve always understood how important this competition is,” Rodgers said. “That’s why we give everything to try and win it.
“But every team in Scotland loves the magic of the Scottish Cup.”
“The final at Hampden is very special, and when you reach the quarter-finals, you can start to see it. But the focus must be on this game and the matches that will take us there.”
“When I returned, I promised the fans that we would fight to win trophies and do well in Europe. Winning is what I came here to do.
“The Scottish Cup is a big part of Celtic’s history, and it’s a great chance to win something special. That’s why every game in this competition matters to me. I hope I can keep my winning record going.”
Rodgers also gave an update on the squad for Sunday’s match. Callum McGregor and Auston Trusty are fit to play, but Liam Scales is likely to miss out after injuring his cheekbone against St Mirren last weekend.
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