O'Neill pointed out that Dunfermline successfully navigated difficult matches against top-flight opposition.
"His run this year in the cup has been terrific, knocking out three top-flight teams as well along the way," said O'Neill.
The interim boss acknowledged that the underdogs have consistently found tactical solutions under pressure.
"I know he mentioned that the game against Falkirk was a bit attritional in the semi-final, but they found a way to win, stayed through it until they got through on penalty kicks," said O'Neill.
Dunfermline manager Neil Lennon dismissed the notion that his squad is merely participating in a celebratory event. "It's not a day out for us," said Lennon.
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Lennon referenced media speculation regarding O'Neill's potential achievements had he taken charge earlier in the season.
"I've seen a lot of comments this week about Martin [O'Neill] picking up the trophy with Callum McGregor and if he'd have been here earlier in the season, he would have been winning a treble," said Lennon.
The Dunfermline boss issued a clear warning to the newly crowned Premiership winners. "I wouldn't dismiss us.
We're the underdogs, but underdogs bite," said Lennon.
Lennon stated that his squad maintains a quiet confidence despite the overwhelming challenge ahead.
"We will come - I wouldn't say brimming full of confidence - but with an inner belief that we can achieve something here.
We're under no illusions as to how difficult that's going to be," said Lennon.
