Celtic prepare for Champions League by thrashing Raith
Celtic 5 - 0 Raith Rovers
Daizen Maeda hit a landmark 50 goals for Celtic as his stunning hat-trick fired the holders into the Scottish Cup quarter-finals with a dominant 5-0 victory over Raith Rovers.
Brendan Rodgers made sweeping changes, bringing in nine fresh faces to the starting XI, but it was business as usual at Celtic Park as the Hoops extended their formidable unbeaten home run to 32 matches—just one shy of the record set by Gordon Strachan’s 2007 side.
Second-half strikes from Luke McCowan and Yang Hyun-Jun put Celtic firmly in control before Maeda rounded off his treble, latching onto a superb assist from McCowan.
The Japanese forward, who had already bagged a brace before half-time to shatter Raith’s resistance, now boasts 21 goals for the season—proving himself an able replacement for the departed Kyogo Furuhashi, with six goals in his last three outings.
More news from the Scottish Cup
Celtic’s strength in depth on display
It could have been an even tougher evening for Raith had Callum McGregor’s early effort not rattled the junction of the post and bar, denying the hosts a dream start.
Maeda also thought he had another before the break, only for his close-range finish from Anthony Ralston’s cross to be ruled out for offside.
With Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich next up in the Champions League on Wednesday, Rodgers opted to rest key players, including Alistair Johnston, Cameron Carter-Vickers, and Auston Trusty. Goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel was also given the night off, with Viljami Sinisalo making his Celtic debut between the sticks.
But despite the changes, there was no dip in quality. Celtic have now racked up 14 goals in their last three matches and a remarkable 110 across the season—highlighting their ruthless attacking form.
For Barry Robson’s Raith, it was a harsh lesson. The Championship side looked set to go in at the break just a goal down, but Maeda’s second on the stroke of half-time ended any hopes of a comeback.
Celtic’s class shone through after the restart, sealing another emphatic win as they now turn their focus to the visit of Harry Kane and Bayern Munich—with confidence soaring.
More views from Celtic fans
We caught up with a few Celtic fans after the match who were all delighted with the win and performance.
"Daizen Maeda is arguably one of our best signings in recent years," says Jamie. "His dedication to the team and professionalism are second to none. Another superb performance from him and the squad—no signs of slowing down in the pursuit of another treble. Fingers crossed we can get something against Bayern and prove we've made progress in Europe. Well played tonight!"
What else has been happening across Scotland
"Good squad rotation, and everyone stepped up," says Paul. "I expect a completely different lineup in midweek. Buzzing for Maeda—he's scoring for fun right now—and great to see Viljami Sinisalo get his chance in goal. Onwards and upwards as we prepare for a crucial few weeks."
"Maeda has been a revelation for Celtic since he arrived, but his recent form seen him reach anotherlevel," says Jordan. "His work off the ball is up there with the very best in world football. In the past, his first touch sometimes let him down, but lately, he's been sharper, and the goals and assists are rolling in."
