Steven Pressley’s side stun champions as manager delivers fiery post-match interview

Dundee manager Steven Pressley delivered a passionate and uncompromising assessment of Celtic after guiding his side to a famous 2–0 win in the Scottish Premiership at Dens Park.

Goals from Craig Robertson and an own goal by Cameron Carter-Vickers handed Dundee a deserved victory and inflicted one of Celtic’s most disappointing defeats of the season. But it was Pressley’s post-match interview that dominated the headlines, as the Dundee boss accused the Glasgow club of arrogance, complacency and a lack of hunger.

Celtic arrived in Dundee as heavy favourites but looked unrecognisable from the team that has dominated Scottish football in recent years. Pressley’s side were disciplined, energetic and aggressive from the first whistle, pressing high and refusing to allow the visitors any rhythm.

The opening goal came in the 18th minute when Craig Robertson finished a precise cross from Luke McCowan to send the home support into celebration. Celtic’s response was disjointed and lacked intensity as Dundee continued to dictate the tempo of the game.

Just before half-time Dundee doubled their advantage when a cross from the left caused confusion in the Celtic penalty area. Under pressure, Cameron Carter-Vickers diverted the ball into his own net to make it 2–0.

The second half saw Celtic enjoy more possession but create very few clear chances. Dundee’s defensive organisation and relentless work rate frustrated the visitors throughout, while goalkeeper Trevor Carson was rarely tested.

When the final whistle sounded, Dens Park erupted. Dundee players embraced as fans applauded their team’s effort while Celtic’s players left the pitch in silence.

Speaking to BBC Scotland after the match, Pressley praised his players for their discipline and desire but made no attempt to hide his frustration with Celtic’s approach.

“This was not about luck or tactics,” Pressley said. “It was about attitude. My players fought for every ball and respected the shirt they wear. Celtic came here thinking the game was already won. That is arrogance, and tonight they were punished for it.”

He continued, “For years people have spoken about Celtic’s standards. Tonight Dundee showed them what standards look like. It is not about reputation. It is about hunger, discipline and pride. We had it, and they did not.”

The interview immediately went viral on social media, drawing widespread reaction from supporters across Scottish football. Many praised Pressley for his honesty and passion, while others suggested his comments might provoke a strong response from the Celtic camp in the weeks ahead.

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers did not speak to the media after the match, with the club issuing only a brief statement congratulating Dundee and acknowledging the disappointment of the result. The defeat leaves Celtic’s lead at the top of the Premiership table under renewed pressure and raises further questions about consistency and mentality.

For Dundee, the victory represents one of their finest performances in recent memory. It was a result built on structure, belief and collective determination, and it reflected the growing confidence under Pressley’s management.

“This club has a proud history and a support that expects fight and commitment,” Pressley added. “That is what we delivered tonight. We will enjoy this, but we also know it must be a standard we maintain.”

The result moves Dundee further up the table and provides a significant boost ahead of their next league fixture. Celtic, meanwhile, will return to training facing both internal scrutiny and external criticism as they look to respond quickly.

In a league often dominated by familiar narratives, this was a reminder that no team is untouchable. Dundee earned every bit of their victory, and Steven Pressley’s words ensured it will be remembered as more than just another Premiership upset.