Celtic win in Old Firm derby to put pressure on Hearts

3 min read
Celtic win in Old Firm derby to put pressure on Hearts

Celtic win in Old Firm derby to put pressure on Hearts

Celtic have reduced the gap at the top to just one point while ensuring Rangers finish third after a 3-1 win in the Old Firm derby.Rangers knew they had to win going into this game and took the lead e...

Celtic win in Old Firm derby to put pressure on Hearts

Celtic have reduced the gap at the top to just one point while ensuring Rangers finish third after a 3-1 win in the Old Firm derby.Rangers knew they had to win going into this game and took the lead e...

The Old Firm derby delivered all the drama and passion we've come to expect, as Celtic stormed back from an early deficit to secure a commanding 3-1 victory that shakes up the Scottish Premiership title race. The win narrows the gap at the top to just one point and confirms Rangers will finish third, putting the pressure firmly on league leaders Hearts with only two games left to play.

Rangers came out with everything to play for, knowing only a win would keep their slim title hopes alive. They struck early when Youssef Chermiti's clever footwork created a chance that was blocked, but Mikey Moore was perfectly positioned to pounce on the rebound and fire home inside the first 10 minutes. It was the start Rangers needed, but Celtic had other plans.

The home side responded in style just past the 20-minute mark. Luke McCowan's intelligent pass found Arne Engels, who pulled the ball back brilliantly for Yang Hyun-jun to smash past Jack Butland and level the score. The equalizer ignited Celtic Park and set the stage for a stunning second-half display.

Enter Daizen Maeda. The Japanese forward, often criticized for his inconsistent finishing, produced two moments of pure magic in the space of four minutes to complete the turnaround. First, Kieran Tierney delivered a low cross from the left, and Maeda showed composure beyond reputation to steer the ball into the corner. But his second goal was something else entirely.

With just over 56 minutes on the clock, Maeda controlled a ball in the area with a single touch before launching into an audacious overhead kick that looped over the goalkeeper and nestled into the net, sending Celtic Park into absolute delirium. It was the kind of goal that will be replayed for years—a truly sensational strike that ranks among the finest Old Firm derby goals in recent memory.

This victory does more than just boost Celtic's title hopes—it sets up a mouthwatering final two matchdays. If both Celtic and Hearts win their next fixtures, the season will come down to a dramatic showdown when Hearts visit Celtic Park. For fans of both clubs, the stage is set for an unforgettable finish to the campaign.

Like this article?

Order custom jerseys for your team with free design

Related Topics

Related News

Back to All News