Celtic returned to winning ways in the Scottish Premiership with a 2-0 victory over Motherwell at Fir Park, ending a run of three consecutive defeats before the international break and moving back to the top of the table.

Both sides entered the contest looking to get their seasons back on track, with Motherwell also having gone three games without a victory. However, it was Celtic who made the brighter start, quickly establishing control and taking an early lead.

The visitors struck in the ninth minute through Camilo Duran, who finished off a neat attacking move involving Callum McGregor and Colby Donovan. Their combination opened up the Motherwell defence, allowing Duran to collect the ball on the edge of the penalty area before drilling a low effort beyond the outstretched Alex Paulsen.

Celtic threatened to double their advantage just five minutes later when Mika Baur connected with a half-volley, forcing Paulsen into an excellent save to keep the hosts within touching distance.

Motherwell struggled to gain a foothold in the contest, repeatedly giving possession away in midfield and finding it difficult to cope with Celtic’s intensity. The home side eventually fashioned their first meaningful opportunity in the 26th minute when Lukas Fadinger drove forward and into the penalty area before unleashing a shot at goal.

Viljami Sinisalo could only parry the effort away, but McGregor reacted quickly to prevent Motherwell from capitalising on the rebound, turning the ball behind for a corner.

That opportunity offered the hosts some encouragement, and they gradually grew into the game as the first half progressed. However, despite enjoying spells of possession, Motherwell struggled to translate their improvement into clear-cut chances, with Celtic maintaining their advantage at the interval.

Celtic emerged for the second half with renewed purpose and almost extended their lead within a minute of the restart. Sebastien Tounekti cut inside from the left flank before curling an effort towards the top-right corner, only for Paulsen to produce another impressive save.