Celtic vs Falkirk Predictions

• Celtic have won 12 of their last 13 League Cup matches, including each of the last four at home
• Celtic have beaten Falkirk 5-2, 3-0 and 3-1 in their last three meetings
• Reo Hatate has scored on three of his last five starts for Celtic

No shocks expected at Parkhead

Celtic should take care of business with the minimum of fuss when they open the defence of the Scottish League Cup in the second round against Falkirk at Parkhead.

Brendan Rodgers has tended to pick strong sides in this competition down the years and the Northern Irishman has no reason to change that approach against Falkirk.

The newly-promoted Premiership club gave a good account of themselves on their last trip to the east end of Glasgow, losing 5-2 in the third round of this competition last season.

Bairns can be made to pay

The Bairns had three big wins in the group stages, including a 7-0 demolition of Brechin, and took a point in an opening weekend 2-2 Premiership draw at home to Dundee United.

Last Saturday’s 3-1 reverse at Livingston was a setback, but John McGlynn’s side like to open the game up and can be made to pay by clinical teams.

Celtic are right at the top of that category and should relish the chance to express themselves after some difficult early-season tests against sides that sat deep. Bacfk Celtic to win with over 3.5 goals, as two of their three previous clashes with Falkirk have finished.