A remarkable Scottish Premiership campaign concluded on a thrilling note, with Martin O’Neill’s Celtic securing their fifth consecutive title by defeating Hearts 3-1. The match, held at Celtic Park on the final day of the season, saw Daizen Maeda score an 87th-minute winner that sparked wild celebrations among the home supporters.
According to Sky News, there has been a constant in Scottish football for four decades: either Celtic or Rangers win the title. This year’s championship was no exception as Celtic emerged victorious once again, despite Hearts’ best efforts to break their long-standing dominance over the Old Firm rivalry.
The Independent.ie reported that Celtic were on course to claim the top-flight title for the first time since 1960 until Daizen Maeda turned home in the 87th minute. His goal was initially disallowed due to offside, but a quick review revealed he was indeed onside, sparking jubilant scenes at Celtic Park.
In a dramatic turn of events, Hearts pushed everyone forward for a free-kick deep into stoppage time. However, Celtic broke through and 20-year-old substitute Callum Osmand scored an empty-netter to ensure the title remained in Glasgow. The match ended with Lawrence Shankland’s early goal for Hearts, but Arne Engels equalised from the penalty spot on the stroke of half-time.
The Evening Standard reported that after the final whistle, fans flooded onto the pitch, leading to police intervention. Both sets of players were taken off the pitch as Hearts’ title hopes crumbled in front of their eyes. The referee eventually blew the final whistle 30 seconds early once the playing surface was cleared.
Hearts’ manager Derek McInnes and his team made a hasty exit from Celtic Park, with some reportedly still on their kits, boarding the team bus to make the journey back to Edinburgh without fulfilling post-match media commitments. The Independent.ie noted that Hearts endured last-day devastation as they were pipped at the post by O'Neill’s Celtic.
The match also secured Celtic's place in next season’s Champions League play-offs and cemented their status as Scottish football giants, maintaining a 40-year stranglehold on the title.
This article was produced by AVALW News on Saturday, May 16, 2026 based on reporting from 7 verified news sources across 2 countries. Our editorial process cross-references facts from multiple independent outlets to deliver accurate, comprehensive coverage. All original sources are linked below.