Celtic's lineup choices questioned after Rangers cup loss
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill faced criticism for his team selection after a 3-0 defeat to Rangers in the Premier Sports Cup quarter-final. Sebastian Tounekti, who started on the wing, struggled and was substituted at half-time. Former players and pundits suggested that Haissem Hassan should have been given the starting role.
O’Neill’s decision to start Tounekti came after the winger’s poor showing in midweek, where he lost possession 23 times. At Ibrox, Rangers’ Dujon Sterling neutralized him so completely that Tounekti was replaced at halftime by £9m signing Haissem Hassan. The change did little to alter the match’s course, as Celtic fell to a 3-0 defeat. O’Neill also reshuffled his defense, moving Liam Scales into the center and restoring Kieran Tierney at left-back, while goalkeeper Sam Johnstone—making only his second competitive start since March—looked shaky and was taunted by Rangers fans.
The manager’s attacking setup drew further scrutiny: Kasper Hogh, back from injury, led the line but was criticized for a passive display, while Camilo Duran, shifted wide, failed to influence the game. Former players suggested Hassan’s fitness, though not perfect, merited a starting role given his price tag. O’Neill admitted post-match that he would reflect on his own selections after the heavy loss.
This defeat could intensify scrutiny on Celtic’s recruitment and rotation policies, particularly for high-cost signings like Hogh and Hassan. Fans and pundits may question whether O’Neill’s tactical conservatism in cup ties undermines squad morale, especially among younger or less-used players. The result also sharpens the Old Firm rivalry narrative, potentially affecting supporter confidence and media pressure ahead of league fixtures. However, single-game outcomes rarely define a season, and the manager’s willingness to self-reflect may mitigate long-term fallout.