Martin O'Neill's highly anticipated return to the Celtic dugout could not have gone more smoothly, as his side delivered a dominant 4-0 victory over Dundee United at Parkhead. The win, secured with goals from Yang Hyun-jun, Arne Engels, Benjamin Nygren, and Daizen Maeda, provided a stark contrast to the turbulent final days of predecessor Wilfried Nancy's brief tenure.
A Comfortable Victory Marks a New Beginning
The atmosphere inside Celtic Park was one of palpable relief as the home team, brimming with international talent, professionally dispatched a visiting side they were fully expected to beat. The 4-0 scoreline was achieved without major tension, a welcome change for supporters after a period of upheaval. O'Neill, taking charge for the third time after six years away from management, immediately reinstated a sense of order and clarity.
The crowd repeatedly sang the 73-year-old's name, a clear endorsement of his appointment. However, the occasion was not without its notes of dissent, with 'Sack The Board' chants and a banner aimed at interim chairman Brian Wilson indicating that broader issues at the club remain unresolved.
Key Performances and Tactical Clarity
O'Neill's immediate impact was evident in his team selection and the players' performances. Kieran Tierney was restored to his natural left-back role after being used as part of a back three, and his influence was profound. The defender was instrumental in the first two goals, providing the passes that led to strikes from Yang and Engels.
Yang Hyun-jun, deployed as a right winger rather than a wing-back, opened the scoring with a fierce low drive after 27 minutes. Arne Engels doubled the lead just five minutes later, side-footing home from Tierney's low cross. The team looked infinitely more comfortable and assured than during the chaotic end to Nancy's 33-day reign.
Substitute Benjamin Nygren made it three after the hour mark, and Daizen Maeda tapped in a fourth late on after United goalkeeper Dave Richards could only parry a shot into his path.
United's Chances and Celtic's Lingering Issues
Despite the one-sided scoreline, Dundee United created three excellent chances in the first half, exposing moments of frailty in Celtic's defence. Dario Naamo and Owen Stirton were both guilty of poor composure when presented with clear opportunities to score.
For Celtic, one concern was a dreadful first-half challenge by Julian Araujo on Will Ferry. The defender was fortunate to receive only a yellow card, with VAR official Andrew Dallas opting not to review the incident for a potential red.
O'Neill's pre-match call for new signings was also a reminder that work remains. The manager utilised Daizen Maeda as a central striker, a role the Japanese forward filled diligently, but it highlighted the club's ongoing need for a proven number nine.
The final whistle confirmed a straightforward and morale-boosting victory for Celtic. While one result does not solve all the club's problems, Martin O'Neill's return has provided immediate calm and a clear focus on winning football matches. For now, that is precisely what the Parkhead faithful demanded.
