Four draws, three different managers.
The Premier Sports Cup has encapsulated Celtic’s turbulent season as they aim to defend their title against Kilmarnock this Sunday.
New head coach Wilfried Nancy seeks to claim his first piece of silverware in his inaugural match for the club and only his third overall in charge. After two losses in his initial games, a win at Hampden would be crucial for the Frenchman.
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Celtic began their quest to retain the trophy under Brendan Rodgers in August, defeating Falkirk 4-1 at home with goals from Daizen Maeda, Alistair Johnston, and Dane Murray, alongside an own goal from Liam Henderson.
They continued their strong form by overpowering Partick Thistle 4-0 in the quarter-finals at Firhill, with Sebastian Tounekti scoring his first goal for the team and Yang Hyun-jun, Liam Scales, and substitute Luke McCowan also finding the net.
By the time they faced Rangers in the semi-finals, Rodgers had resigned, and former manager Martin O’Neill returned temporarily to guide the team.
Despite doubts surrounding the 73-year-old’s reappointment, O’Neill steered Celtic to a 3-1 victory after extra time against their rivals.
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Goals from Jonny Kenny, captain Callum McGregor, and Callum Osmand propelled them into the final.
Now, with a third manager at the helm, Nancy must uphold Celtic’s tradition by securing a ninth League Cup in 12 years.