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Celtic's Late Winners Echo O'Neill's Glory Days

BBC Sport •
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Celtic manager Martin O'Neill drew comparisons between his current squad and the legendary team that brought him three Scottish titles during his first spell at the club. The reigning champions secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Kilmarnock with a stoppage-time winner from Julian Araujo, marking their third late comeback in a week. This latest triumph saw Celtic score six winning goals in the 90th minute or later this season, the most by any team in the Premiership since its 2013 rebranding.

O'Neill's tactical substitutions proved decisive once again, with January signings Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Tomas Cvancara making immediate impacts. The Northern Irishman acknowledged his team's first-half struggles but praised their resilience, noting they're "emulating" his famous side while sometimes "surpassing" them. Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner highlighted this never-say-die attitude as the hallmark of championship-winning teams, drawing parallels to the club's success in the late 1980s.

With Rangers also mounting a comeback to beat Hearts 4-2, only three points separate the top three title contenders. Celtic's board has faced scrutiny over recruitment decisions this season, but recent loan signings like Araujo and Adamu appear to be paying dividends. As the title race intensifies, O'Neill recognizes that while late winners have become a habit, his team must improve their 90-minute performances to challenge for silverware.