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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Aidan Macdonald

3 Celtic talkers as Ange Postecoglou's side defeat Motherwell to book place at Hampden

PRECISE PASSING

Throughout the game, the Hoops were accurate in their passing. It allowed them to create plenty of chances and dominate possession. The distribution from back to front was relatively consistent, although goalkeeper Benjamin Siegrist did have a few misplaced kick-outs at times. Overall, though, the Scottish champions were able to fashion many opportunities due to their excellent on-the-ball performance. Several times throughout the 4-0 victory, the Celtic midfield passed in triangles which allowed them to play out of tight scenarios and break at pace when required. Matt O'Riley, Reo Hatate and Aaron Mooy dictated play, and were a joy to watch at times.

ABADA'S CLINICAL EDGE 

It was another two goals for Liel Abada at Motherwell, who now takes his total for the season to eight goals in all competitions. The Israeli international was absolutely lethal in front of goal at Fir Park. Both of his finishes were instinctive, which is what the winger does best. His movement was also excellent, and he gave the Motherwell defence problems all night. The 21-year-old was also involved in the third and fourth goals for the Parkhead side as he first provided a cross for Hatate's finish and then was involved in Kyogo Furuhashi getting on the scoresheet, as his shot ricocheted off the post before being put away by the Japanese forward on the rebound.

THE HATATE SHOW

The midfielder was electric all night. His range of passing was superb, and he was able to change the pace of the game at the drop of a hat. He created numerous attempts for his teammates, and eventually, he got in amongst the goals himself. Into the second half, the Japanese international was able to muscle a Steelemen defender off the ball, then showed great feet by dragging the ball past Liam Kelly in goals to get Celtic's third of the night. It was yet another strong performance from the 24-year-old, who was once again the undoing of the Lanarkshire side.

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