“IT IS TIME TO CHANGE THE NARRATIVE” Aberdeen’s 32-year Hampden hoodoo against Celtic laid bare

Aberdeen’s 32-Year Hampden Hoodoo: Can Jimmy Thelin Break the Curse?

As Aberdeen prepares to face Celtic in tonight’s Premier Sports Cup semi-final, the weight of history hangs heavy over Pittodrie. The Dons have not beaten Celtic at Hampden Park in 32 years, a dismal record that Jimmy Thelin will be desperate to rectify.

The Hoodoo: A Damning Statistic

Since Eoin Jess’s solitary goal secured a 1-0 victory for Aberdeen in the 1992 Scottish League Cup semi-final, the Dons have suffered an astonishing nine consecutive defeats against Celtic at Hampden. This woeful record includes:

• 2024: Celtic 3-3 Aberdeen (Celtic won 6-5 on pens) – Scottish Cup semi-final
• 2020: Celtic 2-0 Aberdeen – Scottish Cup semi-final
• 2019: Celtic 3-0 Aberdeen – Scottish Cup semi-final
• 2018: Celtic 1-0 Aberdeen – League Cup Final
• 2017: Celtic 2-1 Aberdeen – Scottish Cup Final
• 2016: Celtic 3-0 Aberdeen – League Cup semi-final
• 2011: Celtic 4-0 Aberdeen – Scottish Cup semi-final
• 2011: Celtic 4-1 Aberdeen – League Cup semi-final
• 2000: Celtic 2-0 Aberdeen – League Cup Final

Thelin’s Task: Breaking the Curse

Jimmy Thelin, Aberdeen’s impressive manager, faces a daunting challenge. His side’s remarkable start to the season, sitting joint top of the league with Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic and nine points ahead of Rangers, will count for little if they cannot overcome their Hampden hex.

Celtic’s Dominance: A Psychological Barrier

Celtic’s stranglehold over Aberdeen at Hampden has become a psychological barrier, one that Thelin must dismantle if his team is to succeed. The Hoops are chasing an unprecedented tenth consecutive domestic trophy, and their experience and confidence at the national stadium will be formidable obstacles for Aberdeen to overcome.

Aberdeen’s Hope: Thelin’s Tactical Acumen

Thelin’s tactical astuteness and ability to inspire his players will be crucial in breaking the curse. His team’s impressive league form and resilience in big games suggest they have the quality to compete with Celtic.

The Verdict: History Against Aberdeen

While Aberdeen’s recent form offers hope, history weighs heavily against them. Can Jimmy Thelin’s side overcome 32 years of hurt and break the curse? The stage is set for an enthralling semi-final showdown.

Key Statistics:

• Aberdeen’s win percentage against Celtic at Hampden: 0% (since 1992)
• Celtic’s unbeaten run against Aberdeen at Hampden: 9 games
• Jimmy Thelin’s win percentage as Aberdeen manager: 65%

Expert Analysis:

“Aberdeen’s Hampden hoodoo against Celtic is a significant psychological barrier, but Jimmy Thelin has the tactical nous to break it. His team’s league form and resilience in big games suggest they can compete.” – Former Scotland international, Billy Dodds.