Celtic overcame Aberdeen in a gritty clash at Pittodrie on Wednesday, with Reo Hatate’s stunning strike securing a vital 1-0 win in horrific weather conditions. Despite the fierce challenge from the Dons, Celtic’s resilience saw them move seven points clear at the top of the Premiership.
A Night to Remember for Celtic
The stormy weather wasn’t the only thing whipping up tension at Pittodrie on Wednesday night. As the wind howled and rain lashed the pitch, it set the stage for a fierce battle between the top two sides in the Premiership. While the weather made things uncomfortable for everyone involved, the action on the field had a certain brutal beauty to it.
Celtic came into this match as clear favorites, but Aberdeen wasn’t about to make it easy for them. The first half was dominated by physicality, with players from both teams putting in crunching tackles, much to the delight of the home crowd. From the start, you could feel the intensity. One of the first signs of a tough match came when Cameron Carter-Vickers received ironic cheers from the Red Shed after completing a backpass to his goalkeeper—something he had botched a week ago.
But even with all the physicality and tension, there was more to this game than just the raw aggression. From the early exchanges, it was clear that Celtic, though struggling to break through, were never out of control. The game played out with a sense of inevitability that a goal would come. Yet Aberdeen, despite their lack of offensive firepower, was determined to make life as difficult as possible.
The Moment of Magic: Reo Hatate’s Winner
As the game trudged on, with both teams fighting through the relentless rain, the breakthrough finally came in the 73rd minute. It was an unforgettable moment: Reo Hatate, ever the calm presence in a chaotic environment, produced a piece of brilliance to separate the two teams.
Greg Taylor, who had replaced Alex Valle, provided the assist. The ball came to Hatate perfectly, and without hesitation, the Japanese midfielder expertly controlled it with his chest before delivering a smooth half-volley that nestled into the back of the net. It was a goal that made all the hard work, the grind, and the struggle worthwhile for Celtic.
In that moment, the chaos of the match faded, and all that was left was Hatate’s composed finish—a stark contrast to the wildness of the game leading up to it. Aberdeen could do little but admire the beauty of that goal.
Aberdeen’s Resistance and Celtic’s Dominance
Even as the goal sent Celtic in front, Aberdeen wasn’t finished yet. They continued to push, trying to find an equalizer in the dying minutes. However, they couldn’t capitalize on their few opportunities, with striker Sokler shooting high when presented with a chance. That missed chance seemed to confirm the fate of the match, and in the final minutes, Celtic kept their grip on the game, doing just enough to ensure the victory.
Celtic’s dominance was undeniable, and while Aberdeen fought valiantly, it was clear that the champions would not be denied. A Celtic side that can perform under pressure, in awful conditions, and with their opponents putting up a spirited fight is a team that feels nearly unbeatable.
Celtic’s Unstoppable March to the Title
With the win at Pittodrie, Celtic have extended their lead to seven points at the top of the Premiership, with a game in hand. The result all but confirms their status as champions of Scotland once again, as no one appears to be capable of challenging their position at the summit.
This Celtic team, even when faced with adversity, continues to prove their strength. The stormy conditions only added to the narrative of Celtic as a formidable force, able to battle through whatever is thrown at them. If there were any doubts before Wednesday, the win has left little room for questioning their superiority in the league.
Aberdeen, despite the loss, should take heart. Their resilience in the face of a dominant opponent shows that there’s still plenty to fight for. With a few adjustments and a bit of luck, the Dons will surely be back on track. However, as it stands, the title race looks firmly in Celtic’s hands.
