The celebrations from Celtic’s 3-1 win over Rangers are still going strong, and Daizen Maeda’s overhead kick is a major reason why.
Supporters have watched it countless times already. They’ll watch it countless more before this season’s done.
It was one of those moments that barely looked real in real time. The ball hanging in the air, Maeda adjusting himself in a packed box, then the connection. Right into the net and right in front of the Jock Stein Stand.
Celtic’s official Instagram account posted another angle of the goal after the match, and somehow, it looked even better the second time around.
The finish itself was outrageous, but the reaction behind the goal told its own story. Absolute bedlam in the stands. Scarves in the air, bodies everywhere, and that split second where everyone inside the stadium knew the game firmly in their hands.
So go on then, time for another look at it!
Maeda is flying at exactly the right moment.
Six goals in his last four matches now, including the double against Rangers yesterday. His movement has always caused problems, but there’s a sharpness back in his finishing that the Hoops have badly needed heading into the final stretch.
He never stops running, never gives defenders peace, and right now, everything seems to be dropping for him.
That matters because Celtic are entering the defining week of the season.
Beating Rangers is always massive. Doing it with the league title still on the line raises the stakes even more.
The reality across the city makes it sweeter for Celtic supporters as well. Rangers are heading for a third-place finish while Celtic and Hearts fight it out for the title.
Now attention turns to Fir Park. Motherwell still need points to officially secure fourth place. They are only four ahead of Hibs, and they’ll believe they can take something from Celtic if the game turns scrappy.
Martin O’Neill will know exactly what’s coming. Fir Park is never straightforward at this stage of the season, especially against a side with something still riding on it.
There’s no room for slip-ups now. Hearts host Falkirk while Celtic head to Lanarkshire knowing the equation is simple. Win the match and move one step closer to retaining the title.
The end is finally in sight after a campaign that feels like it’s lasted forever.
For now though, supporters are still replaying Maeda’s overhead kick and enjoying every second of it.
A goal like Henrik’s, we will remember forever!