Celtic vs St Mirren: Scottish Cup Semi-Final Preview, Team News & How to Watch

The Scottish Cup semi-final clash between Celtic and St Mirren is set to deliver high-stakes drama at Hampden Park, with a place in the final and a potential domestic double on the line. As Brendan Rodgers’ side look to maintain their momentum following a chaotic but convincing quarter-final win over Aberdeen, St Mirren arrive buoyed by recent form and a history of causing upsets against the Glasgow giants. This match represents more than just a trophy chase — it’s a test of depth, tactical discipline, and mental resilience for both teams.

With kick-off scheduled for Saturday, April 20, 2024, at 12:15 PM BST, fans across Scotland and beyond can follow the action live via BBC Scotland on radio and online, with real-time updates, expert analysis, and post-match reaction available through BBC Sport. The winner will face either Rangers or Aberdeen in the final, depending on the outcome of the other semi-final.

Team News & Predicted Lineups

Celtic enter the semi-final with a near-full-strength squad, though manager Brendan Rodgers will assess the fitness of a few key players ahead of the clash. Defender Cameron Carter-Vickers returned to training after a minor knock, while Kyogo Furuhashi remains a doubt due to a hamstring issue sustained in training. Midfielder Callum McGregor is expected to captain the side, having recovered from a slight illness.

St Mirren, under the guidance of Stephen Robinson, will be without suspended midfielder Greg Kiltie, who picked up his fifth yellow card in the quarter-final win over Dundee United. However, the Buddies boost their attacking options with the return of Curtis Main from injury, who could partner Mark O’Brien up front.

Celtic Predicted XI (4-3-3):

• GK: Joe Hart
• RB: Anthony Ralston
• CB: Cameron Carter-Vickers
• CB: Liam Scales
• LB: Greg Taylor
• CM: Callum McGregor (c)
• CM: Matt O’Riley
• CM: Paulo Bernardo
• RW: Nicolas Kühn
• ST: Daizen Maeda
• LW: Luis Palma

St Mirren Predicted XI (4-2-3-1):

• GK: Trevor Carson
• RB: Nathan McGinley
• CB: Alex Gogic
• CB: Jason Naismith
• LB: Jake Carroll
• CM: Ethan Erhahon
• CM: Alex Greive
• AM: Curtis Main
• RW: Mark O’Brien
• LW: Ronan Hale
• ST: Tony Watt

Head-to-Head & Recent Form

Celtic have dominated the recent head-to-head record against St Mirren, winning 11 of their last 12 meetings across all competitions, with the Buddies’ sole victory coming in a 2-1 Scottish Cup upset at Hampden in February 2018. Since then, Celtic have scored 30 goals in those 11 wins, conceding just four.

In league play this season, Celtic have beaten St Mirren twice: a 3-0 win at Parkhead in October 2023 and a 2-0 victory away in January 2024. However, cup football often defies form, and St Mirren have shown they can raise their game in knockout competitions — notably reaching the 2022 Scottish Cup final under Robinson.

Form-wise, Celtic are unbeaten in their last six matches across all competitions, scoring 16 goals and keeping four clean sheets. St Mirren have won three of their last five, including a hard-fought 1-0 win over Dundee United in the quarter-finals, showcasing their defensive organization and counter-attacking threat.

Key Battles to Watch

1. Kyogo Furuhashi vs St Mirren’s Back Three

If fit, Kyogo’s movement and finishing will test St Mirren’s high line. His ability to drift wide and create overloads could be crucial against a back three that has occasionally struggled against pace.

2. Callum McGregor vs Ethan Erhahon

The midfield duel could decide the tempo. McGregor’s experience and passing range will look to control proceedings, while Erhahon’s energy and box-to-box presence aim to disrupt Celtic’s rhythm.

3. Nicolas Kühn on the Left vs Jake Carroll

Kühn’s direct running and crossing ability from the left wing could exploit any space behind Carroll, who has been solid defensively but may struggle against quick transitions.

How to Watch & Live Updates

Fans can tune into live audio commentary via BBC Radio Scotland, with build-up starting at 11:30 AM BST. For real-time text updates, statistics, and expert analysis, BBC Sport’s live centre will provide minute-by-minute coverage. Post-match, expect in-depth reports, player ratings, and reaction from both camps on BBC Sport and STV Sport.

Internationally, the match will be streamed live on Celtic TV (subscription required) and via Scottish FA’s official platforms in select territories.

Prediction & Stakes

Celtic enter as clear favourites, given their superior squad depth, recent dominance in the fixture, and attacking firepower. However, cup matches are notorious for producing shocks, and St Mirren’s disciplined structure and ability to frustrate top sides cannot be overlooked.

A win for Celtic would retain their hopes of a historic treble alive — having already secured the League Cup and leading the Premiership — while a St Mirren victory would mark one of the greatest upsets in recent Scottish Cup history and earn them a first final appearance since 2022.

Regardless of the outcome, this semi-final promises intensity, tactical intrigue, and the kind of drama that defines Scottish football at its best.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does Celtic vs St Mirren kick off?

The Scottish Cup semi-final between Celtic and St Mirren kicks off at 12:15 PM BST on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at Hampden Park.

Where can I watch Celtic vs St Mirren live?

Live audio commentary is available on BBC Radio Scotland, with real-time updates on BBC Sport. International fans can stream the match via Celtic TV or the Scottish FA’s official platforms.

Who is refereeing the match?

As of the latest update, the referee for the Celtic vs St Mirren Scottish Cup semi-final has not been officially announced. Officials are typically confirmed 48 hours prior to kick-off by the Scottish FA.

What happens if the match ends in a draw?

If the scores are level after 90 minutes, the match will go to extra time (two 15-minute halves). If still tied, the winner will be decided by a penalty shootout.

Have Celtic and St Mirren met in a Scottish Cup semi-final before?

No, this is the first time Celtic and St Mirren have faced each other in a Scottish Cup semi-final. Their previous cup encounters have occurred in earlier rounds, most notably St Mirren’s 2-1 quarter-final win in 2018.

Is Kyogo Furuhashi playing?

Kyogo Furuhashi’s participation is uncertain due to a hamstring concern. A final decision will be made by Brendan Rodgers closer to kick-off based on the player’s fitness.