Celtic produced another dramatic late comeback to defeat Kilmarnock 3-2 at Rugby Park, rescuing three points deep into stoppage time and extending Martin O’Neill’s unbeaten run in charge.

On an afternoon that threatened to derail both momentum and title hopes, Julián Araujo struck in the 97th minute to complete a remarkable turnaround and ensure Celtic’s habit of late goals continues to define their season.

Few would have predicted the half-time scoreline. Kilmarnock, buoyed by renewed belief under Neil McCann, stunned the visitors with two goals before the break. Tyreece John-Jules opened the scoring before Joe Hugill added a second, leaving Celtic facing a damaging defeat and threatening to spoil O’Neill’s 300th game in charge.

Celtic had struggled to impose themselves and looked vulnerable to Killie’s direct transitions and physical pressure.

O’Neill acted decisively at the interval. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Tomáš Čvančara and Sebastian Tounekti were introduced, replacing Junior Adamu, Reo Hatate and Yang Hyun-jun in a triple change that altered the tempo and intent.

The impact was immediate.

Tounekti ignited the comeback in the 56th minute, cutting inside and unleashing a superb strike into the far corner to pull Celtic back into the contest.

James Forrest replaced Daizen Maeda shortly after as Celtic continued to press, and the equaliser arrived on 64 minutes. Kilmarnock failed to deal with a long throw into the box, allowing Benjamin Nygren to stab home his 13th Premiership goal of the season.

Momentum had shifted completely.

Kilmarnock retreated, Celtic pushed, and Rugby Park braced itself for a tense finale.

Just as it appeared the points would be shared, Celtic struck with devastating timing once again. Deep into stoppage time, Araujo forced the ball home to spark wild celebrations among the travelling support and complete another rescue act that may yet define the title race.

🔄 The comeback is complete!!!#KILCEL | #CelticFC🍀 pic.twitter.com/oNtWTmXy7x

— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) February 15, 2026

For the third match in succession, Celtic found salvation at the death.

Resilience, belief and a refusal to accept defeat are driving O’Neill’s side forward as the season tightens.

It’s now over to Rangers and Hearts at Ibrox.