Celtic came from behind in a dramatic finale to beat Heart of Midlothian and secure a fifth consecutive Scottish Premiership title after one of the most remarkable final days in recent history.
Hearts had led the league since September and entered the final day knowing a draw would be enough to secure their first league title since 1960. The Edinburgh club were also bidding to become the first team outside the Old Firm to win the Scottish top flight since Aberdeen in 1985.
Shankland strikes before Celtic respond from the spot
The visitors stunned Celtic Park just before half-time when Lawrence Shankland rose highest at the back post to head home from a Stephen Kingsley corner. The goal sparked huge celebrations among the travelling support as Hearts moved closer to a historic title win.
However, Celtic responded in stoppage time of the first half. Arne Engels converted from the penalty spot after Kieran Tierney’s cross struck Alexandros Kyziridis on the arm inside the area. The penalty slipped under goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow to level the score before the break.
VAR drama helps Celtic complete late turnaround
Celtic dominated possession during the second half, especially after Hearts midfielder Beni Beningime was forced off injured early in the period.
Substitute Kelechi Iheanacho struck the post, while Benjamin Nygren tested Schwolow as the pressure intensified.
The decisive moment arrived with just two minutes of normal time remaining. Daizen Maeda bundled home from close range after a cross from Callum Osmand. The goal was initially ruled out before a VAR review overturned the decision, sending Celtic Park into wild celebrations.
Moments later, Osmand broke clear on the counter-attack and scored a third in stoppage time as Hearts pushed everyone forward in search of an equaliser.
Martin O’Neill delivers another title for Celtic
Interim manager Martin O’Neill guided Celtic to another league triumph, 22 years after his previous title-winning spell with the club.
The victory also took Celtic to 56 league titles, moving them ahead of Rangers in the all-time standings.
For Hearts boss Derek McInnes, the defeat ended a remarkable title challenge in heartbreaking fashion. His side had spent months at the top of the table and came within touching distance of one of the biggest shocks in Scottish football history.
Discussion about this post