O’Neill Credits ‘Courage’ as Celtic Snatch Scottish Title from Hearts

O’Neill guides Celtic to title after tumultuous season off the pitch

Celtic secured a fifth consecutive title and 14th in 15 years after a 3-1 win, despite protests over boardroom investment all season.

Supporters invaded the pitch after Callum Osmand’s stoppage-time goal sealed the title, raising concerns over possible sanctions...

Celtic manager Martin O’Neill said it was his team’s mental strength and courage that got them over the line to take the Scottish Premiership title from Hearts in the final minutes of Saturday’s season finale.

The Hoops scored twice in stoppage time to win 3-1 and overtake the Jambos, who had been top of the table for nearly the entire season.

Celtic’s fifth title in a row and 14th in 15 years came under very different circumstances to their usual dominance.

Accustomed to pulling clear at the top, the Hoops spent this season chasing Hearts in a campaign overshadowed by tension off the pitch.

Supporters have staged protests all season calling for changes in the boardroom, frustrated by what they see as a lack of investment in the squad.

At 74, O’Neill stepped in twice as interim manager. First after Brendan Rodgers left in October, then again when Wilfried Nancy lasted only 33 days following six losses in eight games.

Celtic responded by winning seven straight games at the end to snatch the title once more.

“We made plenty of mistakes, but there is plenty of courage in the team. I'm not talking about physical courage but mental courage, which has carried us over the line,” said O'Neill.

🍀 “A Scottish season, a game of so many stories, ends with the same old story!”

Celtic lift the Scottish Premiership trophy for the 56th time 🏆 pic.twitter.com/mvPWHH42ia

— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) May 16, 2026

“Celtic today, when there is unison in the stadium, it's rocking. They never give up. Maybe I did, but they didn't.”

O'Neill added: “This is the most special place on earth.

“When there is unison in this stadium, it is a sight to behold, and obviously, the players have been magnificent.”

There could still be consequences for the Glasgow club, though, after fans ran onto the pitch when Callum Osmand scored in stoppage time to confirm the title.