The final Old Firm derby of the 2025/26 season delivered everything supporters expected — drama, controversy, emotion, and moments of brilliance that will be remembered for years. But after Celtic’s thrilling 3-1 comeback victory over Rangers F.C. at Celtic Park, it was the passionate reaction from Martin O’Neill that stole the spotlight.
The legendary former Celtic boss described Daizen Maeda’s unforgettable performance as “really extraordinary,” and many fans now believe his comments perfectly captured a derby that may have changed the entire title race.
Celtic Respond After Early Rangers Shock
The atmosphere inside Celtic Park was electric long before kick-off, but the home support was silenced early when teenage sensation Mikey Moore fired Rangers ahead in the 9th minute.
It was the perfect start for the visitors. Rangers looked aggressive, confident, and ready to damage Celtic’s fading title hopes. For a moment, the pressure inside Parkhead became unbearable.
But this Celtic side refused to collapse.
Instead of panicking, they slowly regained control of possession, pushed Rangers deeper, and began to dominate the tempo of the game. The equaliser arrived in the 23rd minute when Yang Hyun-jun calmly finished past the goalkeeper to ignite the stadium once again.
From that moment, the momentum completely shifted.
Daizen Maeda Produces Pure Old Firm Magic
If the first half belonged to Celtic collectively, the second half belonged entirely to Daizen Maeda.
The Japanese forward has already built a reputation for relentless pressing, endless energy, and tireless work ethic. But against Rangers, he added something even more devastating — elite finishing.
Maeda struck in the 53rd minute to give Celtic the lead, capitalising on defensive hesitation before finishing clinically. Yet the best was still to come.
Only minutes later, Celtic Park exploded.
A looping cross dropped awkwardly inside the area, and Maeda reacted instantly with an outrageous overhead kick that flew into the top corner. The goal stunned everyone inside the stadium — including Martin O’Neill himself.
For many supporters, it instantly became one of the greatest derby goals in recent memory.
Martin O’Neill’s Emotional Reaction Goes Viral
Speaking after the match, O’Neill could barely hide his admiration for what he had just witnessed.
The former Celtic manager repeatedly praised Maeda’s determination, movement, and unbelievable technique, calling the second goal “really extraordinary.”
Coming from a man who managed legendary players during his first spell at Celtic, those words carried enormous weight.
O’Neill also praised Celtic’s mentality after falling behind early against their biggest rivals. He highlighted the “immense effort” shown by the players and insisted the squad are still fully alive in the Scottish Premiership title race.
Many fans online described the interview as emotional, passionate, and deeply authentic — the kind of analysis only someone with real Old Firm experience could deliver.
VAR Controversy Still Dominates Discussion
Despite Celtic’s stunning comeback, controversy once again surrounded VAR decisions during the derby.
Rangers supporters were furious over several incidents throughout the match, with debates exploding across social media immediately after full time. Some fans believed key decisions shifted momentum heavily in Celtic’s favour, while others argued the officials got the major calls correct.
But O’Neill appeared determined not to let the controversy overshadow the football itself.
Instead, his focus remained on Celtic’s resilience and Maeda’s brilliance — and many neutrals agreed that the quality of the comeback ultimately became the real story of the afternoon.
Why This Win Could Change the Title Race
This was far more than just another derby victory.
Celtic entered the match knowing anything less than three points would seriously damage their chances of catching league leaders Hearts. Falling behind so early only increased the pressure.
Yet the response from the players showed belief, character, and championship mentality.
O’Neill made that point very clear during his analysis. He insisted Celtic are “still fighting” and warned rivals that momentum from an Old Firm victory can completely transform a season.
History has shown that derby wins often fuel title charges in Scotland — and this performance felt significant.
Maeda’s Growing Legacy at Celtic
When Daizen Maeda first arrived from Yokohama F. Marinos, many supporters admired his work rate more than his finishing ability.
Now, he is becoming something much bigger.
Against Rangers, Maeda delivered the type of performance supporters talk about for decades. His pressing terrorised defenders all afternoon, while his overhead kick instantly entered Old Firm folklore.
Martin O’Neill’s praise only strengthened the growing feeling that Maeda has become one of Celtic’s most important players.
And if Celtic go on to complete an unlikely title comeback, supporters may look back at this derby as the defining moment.
A Derby That Will Be Remembered for Years
Old Firm clashes have always produced unforgettable moments — and this latest chapter delivered another classic.
An early Rangers lead. A furious Celtic response. VAR drama. A stunning overhead kick. Emotional post-match reactions. And a title race suddenly alive again.
For Martin O’Neill, it was a reminder of why this fixture remains one of football’s greatest spectacles.
For Celtic supporters, it was proof their team still has the heart to fight until the very end.
And for Rangers fans, it was another painful derby afternoon that will spark debate long after the final whistle.
