Celtic Beat Rangers on Penalties to Reach Scottish Cup Semi-Finals

Celtic Beat Rangers on Penalties to Reach Scottish Cup Semi-Finals

Celtic secured a place in the semi-finals of the Scottish Cup after defeating fierce rivals Rangers in a dramatic penalty shootout at Ibrox Stadium - though the match ended in chaotic scenes as supporters from both sides invaded the pitch.

After a tense contest that finished goalless across 120 minutes, Rangers’ James Tavernier and Djeidi Gassama both failed to convert their penalties.

That allowed Tomas Cvancara to step up and score the decisive spot-kick, sending Celtic into the last four.

However, celebrations quickly descended into disorder.

As Celtic supporters poured onto the pitch following the winning penalty, Rangers fans also entered the field while stewards and police attempted to regain control.

Objects were thrown during the disturbance, and the atmosphere became increasingly volatile.

Police Scotland later described the incidents as “shameful”, stating that officers faced “extreme hostility and violence over a sustained period”.

Authorities also said some individuals carried items intended to cause harm, with both police and members of the public reportedly injured.

Several arrests were made.

The Scottish Football Association confirmed an immediate investigation into the events, while both clubs said they would not comment until the situation had been reviewed.

Tense derby lacking quality

Before the troubling finale, the quarter-final had been an intense but low-quality encounter.

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill was forced to reshuffle his side due to injuries to key players including Callum McGregorand Kieran Tierney. 

Liam Scales shifted to left-back, while Benjamin Arthur made only his second start. Luke McCowanalso took on a deeper midfield role normally occupied by McGregor.

Rangers gradually gained control during the first half but struggled to test Celtic goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo.

Celtic thought they had taken the lead when Daizen Maeda headed home, but the goal was ruled out after a review showed Scales had been offside in the build-up.

The hosts increased the pressure after the break. Mikey Moore forced strong defensive interventions, including two excellent blocks from Auston Trusty.

Rangers also threatened from set-pieces, with Youssef Chermiti and Emmanuel Fernandez both involved in dangerous moments inside the box.

Fernandez briefly believed he had scored in extra time, only for the effort to be disallowed after the ball struck his hand before crossing the line.

Despite Rangers’ sustained pressure, Celtic’s defence held firm. 

Benjamin Nygren also made a crucial clearance off the line to deny Nicolas Raskin.

Celtic survive despite attacking struggles

The match ultimately went to penalties, where Celtic showed composure from the spot to secure victory.

The result was remarkable given their attacking struggles throughout the game.

Celtic managed just a single shot in 120 minutes - and that effort was off target - yet their defensive resilience ensured they stayed in the contest.

For Rangers and manager Danny Rohl, the defeat will be particularly painful.

With a largely full-strength squad and home advantage, they dominated possession and created several opportunities but failed to convert their pressure into goals.

Celtic, meanwhile, once again demonstrated their ability to grind out results despite adversity.

Recent performances - including wins away at VfB Stuttgart and Aberdeen, as well as a draw at Ibrox in the Scottish Premiership - have highlighted their resilience.

While Celtic now remain in contention for silverware this season, attention in the aftermath of the match is likely to focus on the disorder that followed the final penalty and the investigations that will determine what consequences follow.

What they said

Rangers head coach Danny Rohl: "We're disappointed. I saw a team from our side to play 120 minutes how we want to. We should score.

"When you have 24 to one shots, when you create so many great opportunities, then I must say, I'm proud of my group, how we played football. I know football's about results. I see a lot of positive things."

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill: "Well, obviously delighted that we're still in the competition.

"The players showed phenomenal courage and great, great determination and a rear guard action, which is really commendable. Everyone to a man did more than their jobs. They were really terrific."

TAGS

  • Celtic
  • Rangers
  • Scottish Cup
  • Ibrox Stadium
  • Tomas Cvancara
Written by

Shante

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