Celtic secure double after beating Dunfermline to win Scottish Cup

Martin O'Neill's team surged ahead with a two-goal lead by halftime, courtesy of strikes from Daizen Maeda and Arne Engels at Hampden Park.

Kelechi Iheanacho added another after the break, sealing the victory and rendering Josh Cooper's late goal a mere consolation for the overwhelmed Dunfermline.

This marked Celtic's ninth straight win across all competitions, showcasing their peak form under interim manager O'Neill.

Celtic's 43rd Scottish Cup triumph highlighted a remarkable season finale for O'Neill.

The 74-year-old now boasts nine major trophies as Celtic's manager, spanning 26 years.

This victory secured Celtic's 14th league and cup double.

O'Neill, in his second stint as caretaker this season, has yet to commit to returning next term.

The match held special significance as it potentially marked O'Neill's farewell, facing Dunfermline's Neil Lennon, a former player under O'Neill at Celtic and Leicester.

When questioned about staying, O'Neill remarked: "Next week, I might discuss with the owner. Dermot Desmond brought me back initially, and I owe him immensely.

"Starting tomorrow isn't feasible for me. However, the season doesn't begin immediately, though the Scottish schedule is tight, and age is a factor.

"My passion for football remains undiminished, even in my twilight years. Winning has always driven me."

Celtic clinched the Scottish Premiership title last weekend, overtaking Hearts with a 3-1 victory on the final day.

Late goals from Maeda and Callum Osmand ensured Celtic finished two points ahead of Hearts, who had led for much of the season.

Hearts expressed frustration over a controversial penalty in Celtic's previous match against Motherwell, which kept their title hopes alive.

The final, however, was devoid of such drama.

Celtic opened the scoring in the 19th minute when Maeda expertly chipped over Aston Oxborough after receiving Alistair Johnston's pass.

Engels extended the lead in the 36th minute with a fierce 25-yard strike that left Oxborough helpless.

Iheanacho showcased sublime skill in the 72nd minute, evading three defenders before finishing coolly after Benjamin Nygren's assist.

Cooper's 79th-minute goal, following a blocked shot by Charlie Gilmour, offered little respite as Celtic comfortably saw out the match.