Celtic win Scottish Cup by dispatching Dunfermline in final
Martin O’Neill guided Celtic to the double as the Scottish champions beat Dunfermline 3-1 in the Scottish Cup final.
Daizen Maeda and Arne Engels netted in a one-sided first half before Neil Lennon’s team made a game of it after the interval.
Substitute Kelechi Iheanacho appeared to put the game beyond the William Hill Championship side in the 73rd minute before Josh Cooper pulled one back six minutes later.
It was a ninth consecutive win for Celtic, who have timed their best run of form perfectly after being galvanised by O’Neill for the second time this season.
The 74-year-old now has nine major honours as a Celtic manager stretching over 26 years and, if it is his final game in management, it was a fitting end as he capped a triumphant return to Glasgow against his former Leicester and Hoops midfielder Lennon.
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Roy Keane Hails Daizen Maeda as Premier League Ready After Sensational Celtic Display
In a thrilling Scottish Cup encounter that concluded moments ago, Celtic secured a 3-1 victory over Dunfermline Athletic, with Daizen Maeda delivering an explosive performance that stole the show. The Japanese forward was in unstoppable form, showcasing blistering pace, relentless pressing, and clinical finishing that powered the Bhoys to victory at Hampden.
Maeda’s energy levels were off the charts as he tormented the Dunfermline defence, creating multiple chances and contributing significantly to the scoring. His “insane” work rate and directness left fans and pundits in awe, underlining why he has become a cult hero at Celtic Park.
Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane, known for his high standards, was full of praise post-match. “Maeda is the real deal,” Keane said. “That kind of intensity, pace, and hunger – he’ll do very well in the Premier League. Clubs should be taking notice.”
Keane’s endorsement adds weight to growing speculation about Maeda’s future. With his all-action style perfectly suited to the demands of England’s top flight, the 28-year-old could be eyeing a big-money move this summer. Celtic fans will hope he stays to complete the domestic double, but Premier League scouts are surely circling.