Aberdeen deny Celtic early

A lunchtime clash at Pittodrie delivers early drama as Aberdeen press Celtic and Kasper Schmeichel earns a key save.

Aberdeen deny Celtic early as Schmeichel makes big save

Aberdeen began with Mitov in goal and a back four of Jensen, Milne, Dorrington and Devlin, with Shinnie as captain and Adil Aouchiche in midfield. The Dons started fast and Aouchiche was denied a stunning open goal by a sharp Kasper Schmeichel save.

Celtic named Schmeichel in goal and a back line of Johnston, Carter-Vickers, Scales and Tierney, with Nygren, McGregor, Hatate in midfield and Forrest, Idah and Maeda in attack. The match marks Celtic's first appearance with their new signing and they aim to avenge their Scottish Cup Final defeat at Hampden in May as the sides meet for the first time since then.

Schmeichel brings a calm authority to a Celtic defense that is undergoing change. His presence could unlock a more aggressive approach from midfield as players like McGregor and Hatate press higher. This game also tests Aberdeen's tempo and willingness to press from the front, a trait coach Jim Goodwin has been building since the start of the campaign.

The lunchtime fixture at Pittodrie highlights how early-season duels shape confidence and momentum. A critical moment or a sharp save can tilt belief across a squad and influence the next few results.

Highlights

Rivalry like this thrives on moments that matter on the field.