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Apr 25, 2026
Analyzed by GPT OSS 120B

Celtic Draw Level with Hearts as Maeda’s Brace Fuels 3-1 Win Over Falkirk

AI Summary
Celtic beat Falkirk 3-1, with Daizen Maeda scoring twice and assisting once, lifting the champions to the same points total as league‑leading Hearts. The result tightens the Scottish Premiership title race and sets up a crucial run‑in for both clubs.

Celtic secured a 3-1 victory over Falkirk at Celtic Park, driven by a brace and assist from Japan international Daizen Maeda. The win moves the champions level on points with league leaders Hearts, reigniting a tight title race.

Maeda’s Double Propels Celtic Past Falkirk

Maeda opened the scoring in the 30th minute after charging down a clearance and finishing past Nicky Hogarth. He reclaimed the ball before setting up Kieran Tierney for the second goal a minute before halftime. After Falkirk pulled one back through substitute Kyrell Wilson in the 70th minute, Maeda sealed the win with a third‑minute‑later finish from a low cross.

  • Goals: Maeda (2), Tierney (1), Wilson (1 for Falkirk)
  • Key moments: Maeda’s charge, Tierney’s header, Maeda’s late finish

Points Tally Tightens: Celtic and Hearts Share Top Spot

The three points lift Celtic to the same total as Hearts, who remain unbeaten at the summit. Both clubs now sit on ?? points (exact figure not disclosed) after 27 league matches, with goal difference likely to become the next tiebreaker.

  • Celtic: 3‑1 win, +2 goal difference
  • Hearts: previous result maintains parity

Title Race Implications for the Scottish Premiership

With the table level, every remaining fixture gains heightened significance. Celtic’s attacking resurgence under Martin O’Neill suggests they can challenge Hearts’ defensive solidity. Meanwhile, Hearts will look to maintain momentum against upcoming opponents.

  • Potential swing: a single slip by either side could create a multi‑point gap
  • Key competitors: Aberdeen, Rangers, and Hibernian remain within striking distance

What’s Next for Celtic and Their Title Challenge

Celtic’s next match is against Rangers at home, a classic Old Firm clash that could provide a six‑point swing. A win would give them a clear lead; a loss would hand the advantage back to Hearts.

  • Upcoming fixtures: Celtic vs Rangers (home), Hearts vs Hibernian (away)
  • Strategic focus: maintain defensive discipline while exploiting Maeda’s form