Celtic’s 3-1 victory over Falkirk at Celtic Park on Saturday, 25 April 2026, proved far more testing than the scoreline suggests, as Martin O’Neill’s side were forced to dig deep to secure a crucial win in the Scottish Premiership title race.

The result sees Celtic move level on points with league leaders Hearts, intensifying an already fierce battle at the top as the season heads into its decisive stretch.

Match Summary: Maeda Leads Celtic Through a Tough Test

Daizen Maeda was the difference-maker, delivering a superb brace in the 30th and 83rd minutes to underline his growing importance to the side.

Kieran Tierney added Celtic’s second just before half-time in the 44th minute, finishing off a move involving Maeda, who also provided the assist.

Falkirk refused to go quietly. K. Wilson pulled one back in the 70th minute, briefly shifting momentum and raising tension inside Celtic Park before Maeda’s late second strike ended the comeback hopes.

Despite Celtic’s dominance in possession and chances, the visitors made life uncomfortable and ensured a nervy finish.

First-Half Control, Second-Half Pressure

Celtic established early control and went into the break 2-0 up.

Maeda opened the scoring with a composed finish from inside the box after being teed up by S. Tounekti, before turning provider for Tierney’s well-taken second goal.

After the interval, Falkirk showed greater attacking intent and were rewarded through Wilson’s strike, setting up a tense final 20 minutes.

Maeda’s second goal arrived at a crucial moment, restoring breathing space and sealing all three points.

O’Neill’s Reaction: “We Have to Battle for Everything”

Speaking after the match on Sky Sports Scotland, Martin O’Neill reserved special praise for his match-winner.

“Maeda is phenomenal,” O’Neill said, highlighting not just the goals but his relentless pressing and work rate deep into the game.

He added: “It was a difficult game for us. Falkirk came out strongly and made us work for everything. We have to battle for everything.”

The Celtic boss stressed the importance of mentality in a tight title race, where every match is becoming increasingly demanding.

Maeda’s Influence Growing at the Right Time

Maeda’s performance once again showed why he has become central to Celtic’s push for silverware.

His movement for the first goal, his selfless assist for Tierney, and his late decisive finish highlighted a complete attacking display.

Beyond goals and assists, his constant pressing and energy, especially late in the match, embodied the intensity O’Neill demands.

With the title race tightening, his form is proving invaluable.

Title Race Heats Up

The win leaves Celtic level with Hearts at the top, while Rangers remain close behind, setting up a tense three-way battle.

With only a handful of fixtures remaining, momentum is becoming critical, and Celtic’s ability to grind out results like this could define their season.

Final Word

Falkirk pushed Celtic further than expected, but O’Neill’s side responded with resilience, experience, and a decisive performance from their in-form forward.

Success will not come easily. It will be earned through battles like this and through players like Maeda, who are stepping up when it matters most.