In a windswept Pittodrie, Celtic edged out Aberdeen 1-0 in a scrappy yet enthralling encounter, with Reo Hatate’s superb finish proving the difference.
It was a night of grit and determination, where moments of brilliance from the Hoops outshone the Dons’ resilience, keeping Brendan Rodgers’ side firmly on track in the title race.
The first half unfolded as a tale of frustration for both teams, with Celtic dominating possession but failing to find the breakthrough.
Reo Hatate came close early on, but his curling effort from distance drifted high and wide.
Despite flashes of danger from both sides, the score line remained goalless at the break.
The second half began with renewed intensity, and it was clear that Celtic were eager to up the tempo.
The introduction of Greg Taylor at halftime brought added dynamism to the left flank, and it was his pinpoint through ball that unlocked the Aberdeen defence for the decisive goal.
In the 78th minute, Taylor split the Dons’ backline with a perfectly weighted pass into the path of Reo Hatate.
The Japanese maestro showed his class, taking a composed touch before slotting a left-footed shot into the bottom corner, leaving Ross Doohan helpless.
It was a moment of pure quality in a game largely defined by hard-fought battles across the pitch.
🗣️ “Celtic have got what they wanted after all!”
Reo Hatate breaks the deadlock at Pittodrie after some great control and a cool finish. Watch the closing stages NOW on Sky Sports ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/SZdWkuGOCc
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) December 4, 2024
Celtic’s substitutes also made an impact, with James Forrest and Luke McCowan injecting fresh energy into the side.
Adam Idah, who replaced Kyogo Furuhashi, had a golden chance to give the Bhoys the lead in the 75th minute, rising highest to meet a Luke McCowan cross.
However, his header was well saved by Doohan, keeping the game level.
As the clock ticked down, Celtic showed their experience, managing the game to ensure the three points headed back to Glasgow.
The Hoops’ defence, marshalled superbly by Carter-Vickers and Alistair Johnston, held firm under late pressure, ensuring that Schmeichel’s clean sheet was preserved.
The win is another vital step for Celtic as they continue their quest for a 55th league title, with the victory taking the Hoops seven points clear of Aberdeen at the top of the Scottish Premiership with a game in hand.
While it may not have been the most polished performance, the Hoops once again showcased their ability to dig deep and deliver when it matters most.
Rodgers will undoubtedly take satisfaction from his side’s resilience, but he’ll also be aware of areas needing improvement.
The lack of ruthlessness in front of goal could have proven costly on another day, and Celtic will want to address that ahead of their upcoming fixtures.
For now, though, the travelling Hoops supporters can savour a hard-earned victory, with Hatate’s moment of magic sure to be replayed for days to come.
