Celtic missed out on a domestic treble after losing the Scottish Cup Final to Aberdeen on penalties this afternoon. The game ended 1-1 after extra time, but it was the Dons who held their nerve in the shootout to win 4-3 and lift the trophy. It’s a hard one to take for Brendan Rodgers and the team after such a strong season.

Celtic took the lead in the first half thanks to an own goal by Aberdeen’s Alfie Dorrington. Arne Engels fired in a corner, and Dorrington, under pressure, turned it into his own net. The Hoops were in control for most of the first half and had chances to double their lead. Callum McGregor, Nicolas Kühn, and Maeda all came close, but none could find the net in the second half.

Aberdeen struggled to get into the game but were gifted an equaliser late n the second half. Kasper Schmeichel, who has been solid for Celtic since joining last summer, made a mistake trying to parry a cross from Shayden Morris. The ball slipped through his hands and dropped into the net. It was a moment that changed the game and gave Aberdeen hope.

Extra time saw both teams tire, but Celtic still created chances. Johnny Kenny and Cameron Carter-Vickers both went close, and McGregor had a shot fly over the bar. The Hoops pushed for a winner, but the breakthrough didn’t come, and penalties were needed to decide the cup.

In the shootout, Callum McGregor’s penalty was saved by Dimitar Mitov. Aberdeen converted their efforts with confidence. When Alistair Johnston had to score Celtic’s fifth penalty, he couldn’t — meaning Aberdeen won the game.

It’s a disappointing end to what has still been a very good season for Celtic. Having won the league and League Cup, and dominated most of the final. But football can be cruel. One mistake, one missed chance, or a poor penalty can change everything.

Now attention turns to the summer. Celtic will regroup, strengthen the squad, and look ahead to Europe and the chance to go one better next season.