In a thrilling Old Firm derby at Celtic Park, Rangers secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Celtic, marking their first win at this venue in over five years. The match was filled with intense action, controversial decisions, and significant implications for both teams.
First-Half Dominance by Rangers
Rangers began the match assertively, taking the lead in the 4th minute when Nicolas Raskin headed in a corner from captain James Tavernier. They continued to press, and in the 37th minute, Mohamed Diomande doubled their advantage with a well-executed finish, leaving Celtic trailing 2-0 at halftime.
Celtic’s Resilient Comeback
After the break, Celtic responded with vigor. Daizen Maeda reduced the deficit in the 68th minute, and Reo Hatate equalized shortly after, leveling the score at 2-2. The momentum seemed to have shifted in favor of the home side.
Late Drama and Controversial Moments
In the 88th minute, Rangers’ goalkeeper Jack Butland launched a long ball that found Hamza Igamane, who scored a stunning goal to restore Rangers’ lead. The match also featured contentious moments, notably when Celtic’s Jota was brought down in the Rangers’ penalty box, but referee Steven McLean waved play on, denying Celtic a potential penalty.
Post-Match Reactions and SPFL Response
The match concluded with heightened tensions. Rangers’ Vaclav Cerny sprayed liquid into the crowd during celebrations, provoking a strong reaction from Celtic fans. Police intervened to maintain order near the dugout. Despite the loss, Celtic remain 13 points clear at the top of the league with eight matches remaining.
Following the game, Celtic released a stern statement addressing the officiating and the SPFL’s previous sanctions related to fan behavior. The SPFL responded by emphasizing their commitment to fair play and safety, condemning any actions that compromise the integrity of the game.
Implications for Both Teams
This victory is significant for Rangers’ interim manager, Barry Ferguson, who became the first Rangers manager to win his debut match at Celtic Park since 1991. The win also boosts Rangers’ confidence as they aim to close the gap in the league standings.
For Celtic, the match highlighted defensive vulnerabilities and the impact of missing key players, such as captain Callum McGregor, who was sidelined due to an ankle injury. Manager Brendan Rodgers acknowledged these issues and emphasized the need to address them in the upcoming fixtures.
Overall, the derby showcased the passion and unpredictability of Scottish football, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next encounter between these historic rivals.
