Palestinian forward Oday Dabbagh etched his name into Aberdeen folklore on Saturday, calmly converting the decisive penalty in a dramatic shootout to secure a 4-3 victory over Celtic in the Scottish Cup final at Hampden Park. The win marks Aberdeen's first Scottish Cup triumph since 1990.
The match was a tense affair, with both goals coming from own goals. Celtic took the lead in the 39th minute when Aberdeen's Alfie Dorrington inadvertently turned a corner into his own net. Aberdeen equalized late in the game when Celtic goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel mishandled a cross, resulting in an own goal in the 83rd minute.
After a goalless extra time, the match proceeded to penalties. Aberdeen goalkeeper Dimitar Mitov emerged as the hero, saving spot-kicks from Celtic's Callum McGregor and Alistair Johnston. Dabbagh, who joined Aberdeen on loan from Charleroi in January, stepped up to take the final penalty and confidently dispatched it, clinching the victory for the Dons.
Since his arrival, Dabbagh has contributed four goals and one assist in 16 appearances across all competitions. His composure under pressure in the final was emblematic of Aberdeen's resilience throughout the match.
The victory not only ends Aberdeen's 35-year wait for the Scottish Cup but also secures them a place in the UEFA Europa League play-off round, ensuring European football until at least Christmas.
Manager Jimmy Thelin praised his team's determination and tactical discipline, stating, "We had to dream big to achieve this. The players showed immense character and belief."
Aberdeen's triumph is a testament to their grit and determination, with Dabbagh's decisive penalty serving as the crowning moment of a memorable campaign.
Photo courtesy: Oday Dabbagh’s official account
On-loan striker Oday Dabbagh scores the winning penalty as Aberdeen defeat Celtic in a dramatic shootout, ending a 35-year Scottish Cup drought.