Celtic vs Sporting CP: O’Neill Names Starting XI

Starting Lineup

Martin O’Neill has confirmed the Celtic eleven that will face Sporting CP at the Algarve stadium this evening. Kick‑off is set for 5.30pm Celtic Park time, and the game will be shown on Celtic TV as well as the CelticPlayer app. The Scottish champions are missing several top performers due to World Cup commitments, but O’Neill has prepared a mix of experienced heads and younger talents.

• Sinisalo – Goalkeeper
• Donovan – Defender
• Carter‑Vickers – Defender
• Murray – Defender
• Scales – Defender/Midfielder
• McCowan – Midfielder
• McGregor – Midfielder
• Bernardo – Midfielder
• Forrest – Forward
• Balikwisha – Forward
• Osmand – Forward

Shutterstock/IMAGO

The substitutes listed include Gill, Duran, Nawrocki, Oxlade‑Chamberlain, Engels, Ure, McArdle, Bonnar, Montgomery, Hatton, Dargie, Hatate, Turley, Obidiwe, Charlton, Haney and Kennedy. Camilo Duran, filling in for the injured Kyogo, is among the bench despite a recent stomach bug. Arne Engels is omitted from the squad amid speculation that Nottingham Forest will test Celtic’s resolve soon. Most of the bench is expected to see action in the second half as both managers rotate their units.

Camilo Duran, Celtic new summer signing at the club’s training camp in Portugal. Photo Celtic FC

Celtic Shorts reporter Conor Spence is present at the ground but not in an official media capacity. The club continues to restrict fan media access, and there is still no indication that a traditional post‑match review will be held.

Midseason Friendly, Tolka Park, Dublin 7/7/2026 Shelbourne vs Celtic .Celtic manager Martin O’Neill. Photo IMAGO

Celtic Team to play Sporting CP. Image Celtic FC

The line‑up and bench suggest Martin O’Neill will rely heavily on substitutions as the match progresses, especially given the absences caused by international duty. Fans can expect a dynamic second half with numerous fresh faces, and the tight schedule means every player will be asked to contribute.