Celtic completed a domestic double with a comfortable 3-1 victory over Dunfermline Athletic in the Scottish Cup final at Hampden Park. The win secured the trophy that eluded them last season when Aberdeen defeated them in the final. Now attention turns to manager Martin O'Neill, whose future remains uncertain despite the success.
Dominant First Half
Celtic took control early, with Daizen Maeda opening the scoring in the 11th minute after a defensive error by Dunfermline's John Tod. Alistair Johnston's long pass forced the mistake, and Maeda lobbed goalkeeper Aston Oxborough. Arne Engels doubled the lead before halftime with a low drive from 25 yards that Oxborough saw too late.
Dunfermline's Response
Dunfermline manager Neil Lennon introduced Chris Kane and Zak Rudden at halftime to add physicality. Alfons Amade came close with a long-range effort that flew just wide. However, Celtic remained in control, and Kelechi Iheanacho made it 3-0 in the 70th minute after a solo run, finishing from six yards. A penalty claim for handball was waved away.
Late Consolation
Dunfermline grabbed a late consolation when substitute Josh Cooper tapped home after a blocked shot. Lennon praised his team's spirit but acknowledged the quality gap. "The better team won, there is no question about that," he said.
O'Neill's Future
O'Neill, 74, will hold talks with majority shareholder Dermot Desmond. He admitted he could not manage a new season starting tomorrow but noted the Scottish season begins soon. Support for O'Neill remains strong among fans and players, but comparisons to younger candidates like Robbie Keane persist.
