O’Neill hails Celtic spirit as they stay in title hunt

Kelechi Iheanacho’s decisive goal in the 81st minute at Dens Park on Sunday prevented Celtic from slipping back in the Scottish Premiership title race. Despite appearing to falter in the final stretch of the match, the defending champions showed resilience, securing a 2-1 win that reignited their ambitions. This victory came after a series of setbacks, including a prior loss to Dundee in the city this season.

The match proved a turning point for Celtic, who had lost all three games in Dundee this campaign. With the league leaders Hearts dropping points at Livingston earlier in the day, the team knew they had to grab three crucial points to maintain their position in the race. Manager Martin O’Neill praised his squad’s determination, highlighting their ability to bounce back from adversity.

“Of course you’re thinking ‘maybe it’s not our day’, but the one thing about this side is that, apart from a fortnight ago, we have shown some really great spirit,” O’Neill said after the win. “We may be lacking some things as a team, but you could say that about all the teams in the mix. We have a really good spirit and that can carry us through. It was important today.”

Celtic’s triumph was not straightforward. Tomas Cvancara, a January signing, missed several opportunities after Yang Hyun-jun opened the scoring for the hosts. Dundee capitalized on a defensive lapse, equalizing through Simon Murray’s penalty in the second half. However, Iheanacho’s header from Marcelo Saracchi’s cross in the 89th minute sealed the win, embodying the grit O’Neill emphasized.

The club’s season has been marked by challenges, including a leadership change. Brendan Rodgers departed in October amid tensions with major shareholder Dermot Desmond, prompting O’Neill to step in as interim manager. After Nancy’s short tenure ended in early December, O’Neill returned to the helm, steering the team through a turbulent period that threatened their title aspirations.

Celtic’s resilience is supported by statistical evidence. They have accumulated more points from losing positions than any other team in the Premiership this season, earning 13 such points. Only Rangers (16) have scored more goals in the final 10 minutes of matches (13), underscoring their ability to claw back in critical moments.

Former captain Scott Brown, reflecting on the team’s mindset, stated: “Celtic have the mentality. If they can keep everyone fit and maintain their work rate, I don’t see why they can’t do it.” The squad, featuring experienced winners like Callum McGregor, Kieran Tierney, and Daizen Maeda, is well-equipped to challenge both Rangers and Hearts. Will this spirit and determination be enough to clinch a 14th title in the past 15 seasons?

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