In a thrilling Old Firm derby at Celtic Park, Rangers secured a 3-2 victory over Celtic, marking their first win at this venue since 2020. Interim manager Barry Ferguson became the first Rangers manager to win his debut match at Celtic Park since Walter Smith in 1991.
The match was intense, with Rangers taking a 2-0 lead in the first half through goals from Nicolas Raskin and Mohamed Diomande. Celtic responded in the second half, equalizing with goals from Daizen Maida and Reo Hatate. However, a late goal in the 88th minute by substitute Hamza Igamane secured the win for Rangers.
Tensions escalated during the celebrations of the winning goal. Rangers winger Vaclav Cerny, who had been substituted earlier, ran along the touchline and sprayed water towards the home fans, provoking a furious reaction. Some Celtic supporters attempted to confront the Rangers dugout, leading to police intervention to maintain order.
Additionally, nearly 100 fans, identified as ultras, were denied entry to the match after refusing to comply with searches for weapons and pyrotechnics. Police Scotland exercised special powers to prevent suspected troublemakers from entering, resulting in 90 individuals being reported to prosecutors. Authorities could not confirm whether the barred fans were supporters of Rangers or Celtic.
Despite the defeat, Celtic remains in a strong position to secure their 55th league title, being 13 points clear with eight games remaining.
