Celtic have secured their 14th Scottish Premiership title in just 15 years, thwarting Hearts’ hopes for their first championship since 1960 with a thrilling 3-1 victory in Glasgow on Saturday.
Under the leadership of Derek McInnes, Hearts had been at the top of the standings since September, appearing poised to become the first team to break the Celtic-Rangers dominance in Scottish football since Aberdeen achieved it under Sir Alex Ferguson in 1985.
However, Celtic manager Martin O’Neill, who has returned to guide the team twice this season, orchestrated a comeback on the decisive final matchday, ensuring the Old Firm’s grip on Scottish football remains unbroken.
Having navigated a tumultuous season to claim their 56th title, Celtic also secured a playoff spot in the Champions League for the upcoming season, putting them ahead of their city rivals, Rangers.
“Honestly, I never imagined I would have the chance to experience these moments with such incredible players… the atmosphere, the coaching staff have given me a new lease on life,” an emotional O’Neill expressed on the pitch.
“That’s not to imply my family hasn’t done the same! But this is the most extraordinary place on the planet. When the stadium is in total harmony, it’s truly mesmerizing. Our players have been outstanding, especially our captain, but we owe this victory to you, the fantastic supporters. Thank you.”
Now in second place, Hearts must take solace in qualifying for the second round of the Champions League after a heartbreaking end to a season where they amassed a record points tally, coming agonizingly close to breaking the longstanding Old Firm reign.
The disappointment will linger for Hearts’ supporters, particularly after facing several controversial refereeing decisions in recent matches, leading to yet another missed title opportunity on the season’s final day, marking the fourth time since 1959.
Following a contentious VAR decision midweek that kept Celtic in the running, McInnes’ team entered Celtic Park knowing that a draw would secure their first top-flight title in over six decades, while a loss would slip away their hard-fought ambition.
Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland opened the scoring with a header from a corner, giving the visitors an early advantage. However, Celtic’s Arne Engels equalized with a penalty just before halftime, awarded for handball for the second time in four days.
Despite dominating the second half, Celtic missed several opportunities, but their persistence paid off when Maeda converted a low cross from Callum Osmand, initially ruled offside, but later confirmed as a valid goal following a VAR review.
The title was sealed when Hearts pushed their players forward late in the match, giving Celtic the chance to counterattack. Osmand sprinted nearly the length of the pitch without opposition to score the final goal of the match.
Following Osmand’s goal, emotions surged among Celtic fans as hundreds stormed the pitch, requiring officials to escort the devastated Hearts players safely down the tunnel amidst the chaos.
After some confusion, the match officials opted not to restart the game.
Information from PA contributed to this story