By Crystal Ugoeze
A brilliant extra-time brace from Kelechi Iheanacho inspired Celtic to a commanding 6–2 victory over St Mirren in a dramatic Scottish Cup semi-final clash at Hampden Park on Sunday.
The Nigerian forward proved decisive when it mattered most, scoring twice in extra time to break St Mirren’s resistance and send Celtic into the final in emphatic fashion.
Celtic had looked comfortable early on after racing into a 2–0 lead through Daizen Maeda’s first-minute strike and Anthony Ralston’s effort just before half-time. However, St Mirren mounted a stunning comeback in the second half, with Mikael Mandron scoring twice — including a stoppage-time equaliser — to force the contest into extra time.
With momentum seemingly swinging in St Mirren’s favour, Iheanacho stepped up to change the narrative.
Introduced as a substitute, he made an instant impact in the 96th minute, rising to head home and restore Celtic’s lead. Just minutes later, Luke McCowan extended the advantage, but Iheanacho was not done yet.
In the 100th minute, the forward produced a clinical finish, finding the top corner to complete his brace and effectively seal the victory. Benjamin Nygren added further gloss to the scoreline as Celtic overwhelmed their opponents in extra time.
Iheanacho’s composure and sharpness in front of goal proved the turning point in a match that had threatened to slip away from the Scottish giants.
The win sets up a highly anticipated Scottish Cup final showdown, with Celtic F.C. set to face Dunfermline Athletic F.C., managed by former Celtic captain Neil Lennon.
Celtic boss Martin O’Neill will now prepare his side for the May 23 final, but much of the spotlight will remain on Iheanacho, whose match-winning brace turned a tense semi-final into a resounding triumph.