Celtic demonstrated their dominance once again by overpowering second-tier side Inverness Caledonian Thistle in the Scottish Cup final, securing their fifth domestic treble in just seven seasons.
Inverness aimed to create a major upset in the final, and their solid defensive efforts held firm until Kyogo Furuhashi, in his first involvement of the game, notched his remarkable 34th goal of the season just before halftime.
Despite expectations of a flurry of goals, the anticipated deluge did not materialize. However, Celtic substitute Liel Abada capitalized on a well-executed move, further cementing Celtic’s control and igniting the treble celebrations for the Premiership champions.
Yet, out of nowhere, Daniel MacKay leaped to head in Wallace Duffy’s splendid cross with only six minutes remaining, injecting renewed life into the final and sparking hope among the small contingent of Inverness fans.
Nonetheless, Celtic persisted, as they have done throughout the season. In stoppage time, Jota expertly converted Abada’s delicate cross, securing the club’s 40th Scottish Cup triumph and another flawless domestic campaign.
Manager Ange Postecoglou, who took charge in the summer of 2021, has now clinched five out of the six domestic trophies available.
However, speculations linking the Australian tactician to the Tottenham job raise doubts about his future with Celtic.
Regardless, Postecoglou has accomplished his primary objective of reestablishing Celtic as the dominant force in Scottish football, achieving this feat in a resounding manner.
Additionally, he became the manager to guide the club beyond their arch-rivals Rangers, amassing a remarkable eight trebles along the way.