Celtic start the 2026‑27 Scottish Premiership with a Monday night meeting against Dundee, aiming to extend their unbeaten opening‑day record while staying within three points of leaders Heart of Midlothian. The club entered the new campaign after finishing 3rd in the 2025 table with 67 points, a 21‑4‑8 record and a +24 goal difference.
What does the historic record say?
Celtic have never lost in seven previous opening‑day meetings with Dundee, boasting four wins and three draws. Their last three victories came in 1986‑87, 1985‑86 and 1984‑85, the most recent being a 1‑0 win. Dundee, on the other hand, have fallen in 23 of their last 25 away games at Celtic’s home ground since a 2‑0 win in May 2001.
Why the match matters for Celtic’s title chase?
Holding the opening slot gives Celtic a chance to set the tone for a season where they have won their opener as title‑holders in 14 consecutive campaigns. A win would keep them within striking distance of Hearts, who sit three points ahead, and maintain momentum after a strong 2025 finish. The club also faces the challenge of missing Benjamin Nygren, sidelined with a muscle issue, meaning manager Brendan Rodgers must rely on depth in attack.
Who should watch for key moments?
Veteran midfielder James Forrest will look to add to his league tally, while young forward Kyogo Furuhashi aims to keep his scoring streak alive. Manager Brendan Rodgers, now in his fifth season, has won four of his five opening‑day games, the only blemish a 0‑0 draw with Dunfermline Athletic in 2003‑04. Their tactical setup will likely feature a high press, seeking to force early errors from Dundee’s back line.
What’s next after the kickoff?
If Celtic secure three points, they will head into a home clash with Motherwell on 26 December 2026, a match that could further solidify their push for the title. A loss would hand Dundee a rare opening‑day win, a feat they haven’t achieved in six seasons, and could see Celtic drop into the relegation‑round bracket if results elsewhere don’t go their way. Either way, the Monday fixture sets the narrative for the season’s first half.
Match facts: Celtic have won 23 of the last 24 home openers, drawing only once (0‑0 with Kilmarnock in 2007‑08). Dundee have not won their opening match in six campaigns, recording three draws and three defeats. This is only the second time Celtic have opened a league campaign on a Monday, the first being in 1921‑22 when they beat Raith Rovers 4‑0. The game promises another chapter in a long‑standing rivalry, with both clubs eager to add a historic result to their records.
