Tomas Cvancara’s Celtic numbers vs Dundee raise a clear concern

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Tomas Cvancara failed to score for Celtic against Dundee despite recording 0.82 expected goals, missing a big chance and striking the woodwork in a performance that again raised questions about his cutting edge.

Celtic created enough to expect more from their central striker at Dens Park, but Cvancara’s end product was simply not there.

Cvancara led the line in Celtic’s win at Dundee and was involved in the moments that should have put the result out of sight.

But the Celtic striker’s numbers underline the issue clearly, with Cvancara’s match stats showing:

• 0 goals and 0 assists
• 0.82 expected goals
• 1 big chance missed
• 1 effort that struck the woodwork
• 2 shots on target and 2 off target
• 3 touches in the opposition box
• 0 successful dribbles from 4 attempts
• 0 out of 6 ground duels won

These stats point to a player getting chances but not taking them, and that is where the concern now sits for Celtic. It is no longer about isolated moments but about a pattern that has been the bane of the Hoops’ season.

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Celtic chances are falling to Cvancara but the striker is not taking them

The 0.82 expected goals figure reflects the quality of opportunities that came his way during the match. Celtic created enough for their striker to score and influence the result.

Missing a big chance and hitting the woodwork are moments that could have cost Celtic at Dens Park. Those are the margins where Celtic fans expect their striker to be hitting the back of the net.

This is not about a lack of service or a player struggling for service. The chances were there and the responsibility to convert them sits with Cvancara.

Celtic need more from Cvancara beyond just getting into positions

The wider performance adds to the concern, with only three touches in the opposition box across the match. That level of involvement is too low for a player leading the line at Celtic.

Failing to complete a single dribble and winning none of his ground duels shows a lack of impact outside of shooting situations. Celtic need their striker to influence big moments and link play even when chances are limited.

Cvancara’s Celtic performances have been questioned before by fans on TalkingPoints and his stats at Dundee supports that reaction.

Cvancara is getting into positions that matter, but at Celtic that is only part of the job. The expectation is to turn those moments into goals, and until that changes, the criticism on Cvancara will continue.