Celtic Targets Fifth Title in Crucial Fixtures as SPFL Sets 2026-27 Dates

Celtic's push for a fifth consecutive Scottish Premiership title intensified this week as the club prepares for a crucial run of post-split fixtures, while the Scottish Professional Football League announced key dates for the 2026-27 season amid ongoing European qualification uncertainties.

The defending champions currently sit third in the standings, three points behind leaders Hearts with four games remaining before the season concludes in mid-May. Martin O'Neill's side begins the stretch against Falkirk on Saturday evening at Celtic Park, followed by matches against Hibernian, Rangers, Motherwell, and Hearts on the final day. A perfect record in these encounters would likely secure the title, positioning Celtic to unfurl their flag at home on the opening day of the next campaign. The Scottish FA has appointed Ryan Lee as referee for the Falkirk clash, with Jonathan Bell and Dougie Potter as assistants, Chris Graham on VAR duty, and Greg Aitken as his support.

Adding to the stakes, Celtic's Scottish Cup final appearance on May 23 against Dunfermline offers a direct route to European competition. Victory at Hampden Park would guarantee entry into the Europa League third...