Sutton Hails Celtic’s Derby Win Over Rangers, Maeda Shines (Glasgow 2026)

Key Points

• Celtic defeated Rangers 3-1 in the Glasgow Derby at Celtic Park on 10 May 2026.
• Chris Sutton, Celtic legend and pundit, praised Celtic’s performance as their best of the season under manager Martin O’Neill.
• Sutton highlighted Daizen Maeda’s overhead kick goal as one of the greatest, changing the game’s atmosphere.
• Sutton credited Martin O’Neill for turning around Celtic’s chaotic campaign.
• Sutton mocked Rangers’ tendency to “roll over” and dismissed doubters as “straw clutchers.”
• Celtic boss Martin O’Neill praised Maeda’s stunning double against Rangers.
• The win keeps Celtic close to league leaders Hearts in the Scottish Premiership title race.

Celtic FC (Glasgow Express) May 11, 2026 – Secured a commanding 3-1 victory over Rangers on 10 May 2026, prompting pundit Chris Sutton to dismiss critics and laud the team’s resurgence under Martin O’Neill.

What Led to Chris Sutton’s Strong Reaction to Celtic’s Win?

Chris Sutton, a former Celtic striker turned respected pundit, reacted swiftly on social media after the match. As reported by writers at Celts Are Here, Sutton posted:

“Celtic save their best for the Derby game when it really counts. Maeda with one of the greatest goals (unlikely goals) but all the same Rangers rolled over like they normally do… what a season. For Martin O’Neill to get this team to this point is remarkable”.

Sutton’s comments targeted what he called “straw clutchers,” referring to those clinging to excuses amid Celtic’s earlier struggles.

The victory came at a pivotal moment, with Celtic conceding early but mounting a comeback. Daizen Maeda’s overhead kick made it 3-1, electrifying the crowd and shifting momentum decisively.

This was not Sutton’s first bold take; he has a history of forthright analysis on Celtic matters. Coverage from FotMob noted the match as an “Old Firm comeback,” underscoring its intensity.

How Did Daizen Maeda Influence the Glasgow Derby Outcome?

Daizen Maeda emerged as the standout performer, scoring a stunning double. As detailed in 67 Hail Hail, Celtic boss Martin O’Neill lavished praise on Maeda post-match, describing his moment as game-changing at Parkhead.

Sutton echoed this, calling Maeda’s overhead kick one of the greatest goals, unlikely yet brilliant. The goal not only sealed the 3-1 scoreline but transformed the stadium’s atmosphere, per multiple reports.

Maeda’s contribution aligned with Celtic’s overall dominance after an early Rangers lead. O’Neill’s management was key in harnessing such individual brilliance during high-stakes derbies.

Why Is Martin O’Neill’s Role Central to Sutton’s Praise?

Martin O’Neill, who took charge during a turbulent season, received direct credit from Sutton. The pundit noted O’Neill’s work in steadying a campaign that once seemed adrift. This derby win exemplified the turnaround, with Celtic producing their best display under pressure.

O’Neill’s history as a successful manager, including past Celtic stints, adds context to his impact. His post-match comments focused on Maeda, but the result spoke to broader team improvements.

Sutton’s tweet explicitly stated:

“For Martin O’Neill to get this team to this point is remarkable.”

This reflects a season of highs and lows, now tilting towards contention.

What Does the Match Report Reveal About the 3-1 Scoreline?

Celtic Park hosted the Old Firm clash on 10 May 2026, with Rangers striking first before Celtic’s response. FotMob reported Celtic hitting back to win 3-1, keeping pace with Hearts atop the Scottish Premiership.

Key moments included Maeda’s wondergoal, as emphasised across sources. ESPN’s historical coverage of prior derbies shows the rivalry’s pattern of drama, though this focused on league implications.

BBC Sport’s live updates captured the epic nature, with Rangers’ early promise fading. Sutton’s reaction post-whistle highlighted Celtic’s superiority.

How Have Pundits and Fans Responded to Sutton’s Comments?

Sutton’s post drew attention for its tone, including jabs at Rangers. YouTube clips from reactions, such as those featuring Sutton and Kris Boyd, indicate broader pundit discourse on Celtic’s form.

While Sutton praised Celtic, he has critiqued them harshly before, like after a Hearts loss. This balanced view underscores his credibility.

Fan sites like Celtic Way track Sutton’s consistent engagement with club topics. The response aligns with Celtic’s strong home record in derbies.

Background of the Development

Martin O’Neill assumed management amid Celtic’s challenging 2025-2026 season, marked by inconsistent results and pressure from rivals like Hearts. His appointment followed a period of upheaval, with the club needing stability to challenge for the Premiership title.

O’Neill, a Northern Irish manager with prior Celtic success, brought experience from handling high-pressure environments.

The Glasgow Derby on 10 May 2026 at Celtic Park became a defining fixture, showcasing tactical adjustments and player motivation under his leadership. Earlier matches, such as the League Cup semi-final loss context from November 2025, highlighted the stakes in Old Firm encounters. Sutton’s praise reflects O’Neill’s role in fostering resilience, evident in the comeback from an early deficit.

Prediction: Impact on Scottish Football Fans

This development can affect Scottish football fans by intensifying the Premiership title race, as Celtic’s win positions them closely behind Hearts. Fans of both Celtic and Rangers may experience heightened rivalry, with Celtic supporters gaining momentum and Rangers followers facing scrutiny over early concessions. Pundit reactions like Sutton’s could polarise discussions on social media, influencing neutral observers’ views on managerial changes. For broader audiences tracking derbies, it underscores the value of standout moments like Maeda’s goal in sustaining engagement through the season’s run-in. Local Glasgow communities tied to the clubs might see increased attendance and media focus on future matches.