Daizen Maeda produced one of the greatest goals in Old Firm history as Celtic roared back to beat Rangers 3-1, keeping the Scottish Premiership title race alive until the final week of the season.
Match Summary
Rangers took an early lead through Mikey Moore in the ninth minute, but Yang Hyun-jun equalised in controversial circumstances midway through the first half. Celtic then took control after the break, with Maeda scoring twice in four minutes—including an outrageous overhead kick—to seal the victory.
Key Moments
- 9th minute: Mikey Moore puts Rangers ahead with a clinical finish.
- 25th minute: Yang Hyun-jun levels for Celtic amid debate over a foul in the build-up.
- 53rd minute: Daizen Maeda fires Celtic ahead with a first-time finish.
- 57th minute: Maeda loops an overhead kick into the top corner to make it 3-1.
Title Race Implications
Hearts drew with Motherwell on Saturday, meaning Celtic now trail the leaders by just one point. A draw at Motherwell next Sunday would set up a winner-takes-all clash against Hearts at Celtic Park on the final day. However, Hearts hold a superior goal difference by three goals.
Celtic manager praised his team's resilience: "We showed great character to come back after going behind. Daizen's goal was something special, but the whole team stepped up when it mattered."
Rangers boss lamented defensive lapses: "We started well but conceded soft goals. At this level, you cannot afford to switch off against quality opposition."
The victory extends Celtic's unbeaten home run against Rangers to five matches and keeps the title race firmly alive heading into the final week.
