In a pulsating Old Firm derby on March 16, 2025, Rangers edged out Celtic with a 3-2 victory at Celtic Park, marking their first win at this venue since 2020. The match was rife with drama, culminating in a contentious refereeing decision that left Celtic fans in uproar.
Match Overview
Rangers started the match assertively, taking an early lead in the 4th minute when Nico Raskin headed home a well-delivered cross. They doubled their advantage in the 37th minute through Mohamed Diomande, who capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot the ball past the Celtic goalkeeper.
Celtic, however, showcased resilience in the second half. Daizen Maeda reduced the deficit in the 49th minute, and Reo Hatate equalized in the 74th, igniting hopes of a comeback among the home supporters. The match seemed destined for a draw until the 88th minute, when Hamza Igamane unleashed a stunning strike from outside the box, securing the win for Rangers.
Controversial Refereeing Decision
The climax of the match was overshadowed by a controversial decision in the dying moments. Celtic players and fans were left incensed when referee Steven McLean denied a penalty claim after a Rangers defender appeared to handle the ball inside the box. Despite fervent appeals and a brief consultation with the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), McLean waved play on, deeming the incident unintentional.
This decision sparked outrage among the Celtic faithful, who felt aggrieved by what they perceived as a clear penalty. The incident has since been a major talking point, with debates over the consistency and accuracy of refereeing decisions in high-stakes matches.
Reactions and Implications
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers expressed his frustration post-match, stating that such pivotal decisions have a profound impact on the game’s outcome. He called for a review of the officiating standards to ensure fairness and transparency.
On the other hand, Rangers manager Barry Ferguson lauded his team’s resilience and focus, emphasizing the importance of the victory in their pursuit of the Scottish Premiership title. He acknowledged the contentious decision but preferred to highlight his team’s performance and determination.
The Scottish Football Association (SFA) has yet to comment on the incident, but the controversy has reignited discussions about the implementation and effectiveness of VAR in Scottish football. Fans and pundits alike are calling for clearer guidelines and more consistent application of the technology to prevent similar disputes in the future.
Conclusion
The Old Firm derby once again delivered a thrilling spectacle, underscored by moments of brilliance and controversy. While Rangers celebrated a hard-fought victory, the contentious refereeing decision in the final seconds has cast a shadow over the match, prompting calls for introspection and improvement in officiating standards within Scottish football.
