After an 100 per cent record in the Premier Sports Cup group stages, hopes were high that Jim Goodwin’s new-look Dons could be competitive at Celtic Park.
However, Ange Postecoglou’s men were far too strong for their visitors from the north-east, with an early Stephen Welsh header and then a fine second-half strike from Jota meaning Aberdeen prop up the league table after the first round of fixtures.
"It has been pretty comprehensive for Celtic - they were well ahead,” former Dons defender and manager Willie Miller said on Radio Scotland. “Aberdeen need to have a little more ambition when they come down here. We have witnessed too many occasions where the performance is just trying to not let Celtic play – and, in truth, it's not worked. Celtic easily could've had another two or three.”
Mark Atkinson rates the Aberdeen players out of ten for their performance at Celtic Park ...
. GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - JULY 31: Dante Polvara and Stephen Welsh in action during a cinch Premiership match between Celtic and Aberdeen at Celtic Park, on July 31, 2022, in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Rob Casey / SNS Group)
Aberdeen conceded an early goal to Celtic after Stephen Welsh headed home a corner. Photo: Rob Casey - SNS Group
. Kelle Roos
A number of smart saves kept Aberdeen alive until Jota's strike. Comfortable with ball at feet too. 7 Photo: Paul Devlin - SNS Group
. Jayden Richardson
Stood up reasonably well to stern examination down his flank. Tried to support attack when possible. 6 Photo: Euan Cherry - SNS Group
. Anthony Stewart
The Aberdeen captain was strong in the air and positioned himself diligently. One big block in first half to quell Celtic when they threatened to run riot. A strong performance. 8 Photo: Euan Cherry - SNS Group
9. Vicente Besuijen
Tasked with being Aberdeen's creative spark, he saw little of the ball but always tried to be enterprising and direct when on it. 6 Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group
10. Jonny Hayes
Passed up such a presentable chance, shooting wide from close range when 1-0 down. Okay in general play but suffered for that miss. 4 Photo: Ross Parker - SNS Group
11. Bojan Miovski
Had one nice flick-on in first half and while starved of meaningful service, he struggled to make an impact on game. Replaced by Duk. 5 Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group
12. Substitutes
Luis Lopes Duk (4, above) and Callum Roberts (4) both came on just after hour-mark to try and spark their attack. Neither player made a suitable impression. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group