St. Johnstone vs Celtic — Predictions, Stats & Match Analysis

Kick-off: Saturday 22 August 2026, 14:00, Scottish Premiership.

Match Preview

Celtic enters this fixture with a potent attacking core led by the in-form Benjamin Nygren, who has significantly outperformed his season baseline in recent outings. St. Johnstone faces a stern defensive test against a Celtic side that utilizes high-volume creativity from wide areas through Kieran Tierney and James Forrest.

Final3rd's predicted score: St. Johnstone 1-3 Celtic.

Match Result Probabilities

• St. Johnstone win: 32%
• Draw: 21%
• Celtic win: 48%

Goals & BTTS

• Expected total goals: 4.54
• Over 2.5 goals: 83%
• Under 2.5 goals: 17%
• Both teams to score: 79%
• BTTS no: 21%

Key Factors

• Nygren Attacking Efficiency — Benjamin Nygren is in clinical form with a 37% scoring probability, buoyed by a 54% increase in xG/90 compared to his season average.
• Celtic Creation Dominance — Kieran Tierney and James Forrest provide elite service, with Tierney showing a massive surge in xA/90 and KP/90 metrics over his last ten appearances.
• Midfield Discipline Risks — Jason Holt and Sam Stanton represent the primary card risks for St. Johnstone, with both carrying a 16% probability of receiving a booking due to high-intensity defensive duties.

Player Insights

• Benjamin Nygren (Celtic) — Elite xG threat in form Nygren has elevated his xG/90 significantly to 0.46 in his last ten games, proving to be the primary offensive engine for the visitors.
• Kieran Tierney (Celtic) — Creative output surging Tierney has become an unexpected source of high-quality chances, with his xA/90 jumping to 0.24, making him a major threat from the flank.
• Luis Palma (Celtic) — Significant dip in production Palma is currently struggling for efficiency, seeing his xG/90 drop to zero over his last ten matches compared to a 0.24 season average.

All predictions are generated by Final3rd's statistical model and AI analysis layer using team and player data, expected goals, recent form and head-to-head history. Visit Final3rd for live scores, player props and detailed match analysis.