Celtic are through to the Scottish Cup semi-finals after beating Hibs 2-0 at Celtic Park on Sunday. Here are the player ratings from an entertaining afternoon.
Starting XI
Kasper Schmeichel - 7
The veteran keeper made a big save early on in proceedings to deny Hibs from taking the lead, doing well to parry a shot from close range. Apart from that, he had nothing to do from a defensive standpoint, though his distribution was solid with his feet.
Alistair Johnston - 8
A good out-ball for Celtic, Johnston had space to run into on the right wing, helped by Kuhn further forward. An effective runner, the Canada right-back did his best to get forward, often passing the ball to Kuhn to further Celtic’s attack.
Cameron Carter-Vickers - 8
You can copy and paste my remarks about CCV from game to game, as it hardly ever changes - he’s that consistent! A rock at the back for the club, he dealt with everything that came his way in the first half, as he looked to get the ball forward quickly and early.
Auston Trusty - 7
A solid showing from Celtic’s number 6, the USA international was up for the battle at the back between his defenders and Hibs’ attack. He does seem to up it when a big game comes along - not the worst habit, in truth. He dealt with everything that came his way - he had to, given Hibs’ keenness to attack and get forward.
Jeffrey Schlupp - 8
One of the standout players in the first half, the Ghanaian left-back linked up beautifully with Jota on the wing, allowing his fellow wide-man to run at his marker when in possession. A clear upgrade in this position, Schlupp went about his business effectively - another strong showing from the on-loan Crystal Palace man. Was unlucky not to score with a low shot that whistled past the post. Strolled it.
Callum McGregor - 6
The skipper once again played as the deepest midfielder, as Engels and Hatate pushed further forward. McGregor quietly went about his business, as he allowed his fellow midfielders to dictate play while he stayed back. Was replaced by Luke McCowan with 15 minutes to play - perhaps an indication that his game-time will be managed from here on in.
Arne Engels - 7
The Belgium international took his time to get up to speed with the game, though his influence was felt once he got a hold of the ball in possession. A bit of a quiet showing from the record-signing, he would be shifted into the deeper role once his captain was substituted - an area he looks really comfortable in.
Reo Hatate - 8
A talented operator with the ball at his feet, Hatate has become a guaranteed starter in recent months. A bit of a mixed bag to begin with, as a few of his passes went awry in the first half. Despite this, he worked hard, getting back when needed to defend in his own half. He would catch his second wind towards the end of the game, as he calmed the game down with his passing, movement and defensive maturity. A calm head in a pressure-filled match.
Nicolas Kuhn - 7
The German winger started this game well, bringing the pressure to his marker, as well as some flicks and tricks on the right side. It was his shot that eventually led to Celtic’s opener, as Smith could only parry the shot into Maeda’s path - the striker was not going to miss from a yard out. He worked so hard on the defensive end, often retrieving the ball from his opposite attacker. Was replaced by Idah with 5 minutes to go - a good day for Celtic’s number 10.
Daizen Maeda - 8
Preferred to Adam Idah through the middle for this one, Maeda brought his non-stop energy as usual for the cup holders up front. He would score his 27th goal of the season, profiting off of Kuhn’s saved shot by Jordan Smith in the Hibs goal - quick thinking as usual from Celtic’s very own bullet train, and an easy finish. Should have scored following a great ball in by Johnston - his touch flying over the bar.
Jota - 7
The Portugal winger looked to get forward at every opportunity, supported on the left side by full-back Schlupp. A mixed bag concerning success in the opening half, Jota kept moving, not deterred by prior wasted opportunities. He clearly still has a few gears to go up concerning his fitness levels, but all the signs are there that he will be a top player once again. Was replaced by Yang Hyun-jun for the final 15.
Substitutes
Luke McCowan - 7
Brought a calmness to proceedings - as well as a lovely assist to fellow sub Adam Idah. A quality cameo from a very talented footballer.
Yang Hyun-jun - 5
Played the ball into McCowan for Celtic’s second goal. Should have scored to put the icing on the cake.
Adam Idah - 6
Provided a lovely finish from McCowan’s cutback - in the right place at the right time. Used his limited minutes well.
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