NafisaJimmy Thelin has disclosed the strategy behind his approach that motivated Aberdeen to defeat Celtic in the Scottish Cup final.
Aberdeen ended their 35-year wait to secure the trophy and halt Brendan Rodgers’ bid to become the first Celtic manager to clinch three domestic Trebles.
Callum McGregor and Alistair Johnston both failed in the penalty shootout as the season concluded in frustration, with several Celtic stars underperforming.
Supporters have called for a summer revamp following the loss, especially since the Bhoys appeared devoid of ideas while Thelin orchestrated the team’s triumph.
Jimmy Thelin utilized time off to motivate Aberdeen’s squad to success:
Thelin reportedly urged his players ahead of the final and after his victory at Hampden Park, revealed that he gave his players time off between matches, as well as encouraging patience without possession.
He told BBC Sport Scotland: “We took two days off after the last game against Dundee United and we tried to think ‘what is the best way to win the final?’.
“We met with the players, we were very clear, everyone bought into it.
“Celtic are a really strong team, but we defended collectively today throughout the entire game. We were patient without the ball, we aimed to exploit the transitions.
“Sometimes you need some luck, but the effort was outstanding from the players.”
Aberdeen draw level with Celtic in Scottish Cup finals record:
Before the Hampden Park encounter, Celtic crushed Aberdeen with what was effectively their B team but it wasn’t to be the case the second time.
The victory means that Celtic and Aberdeen have each won four finals apiece when facing one another in the final.
There were hopes it would be a repeat of the 2017 cup final for Celtic, but they will have to wait until next year at least for that opportunity.
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