In a match that lived up to its explosive billing, Celtic emerged victorious from a fiercely contested Old Firm derby, securing their place in the Scottish League Cup final with a dramatic 2-1 win over arch-rivals Rangers at a rocking Hampden Park.
Early Dominance Rewarded
The Hoops started with blistering intensity, pinning Rangers back from the opening whistle. Their early pressure paid dividends in the 17th minute when Portuguese midfielder Paulo Bernardo broke the deadlock with a composed finish, sending the Celtic faithful into raptures.
Rangers Fight Back Before Late Heartbreak
Rangers weathered the storm and grew into the contest, finding their equaliser through Cyriel Dessers just after the hour mark. The Nigerian striker capitalised on a defensive lapse to set up a grandstand finish, with both teams pushing for a winner in the tense closing stages.
Just as the match seemed destined for extra time, Bernardo emerged as the hero once more, netting his second of the game with a clinical strike in the 88th minute to break Rangers hearts and send Celtic through to the final.
What This Means for Both Clubs
For Celtic: This victory represents more than just progression to a cup final. It's a significant psychological blow in the title race and a statement of intent from Brendan Rodgers' side, demonstrating their ability to win crucial matches under intense pressure.
For Rangers: Philippe Clement's men will be left to rue missed opportunities and defensive frailties that ultimately cost them a place in the final. The defeat leaves their trophy hopes hanging by a thread early in the season.
Looking Ahead
Celtic now await the winner of the other semi-final between Aberdeen and St Johnstone, where they'll be strong favourites to lift the trophy. Meanwhile, Rangers must regroup quickly as both teams return to Scottish Premiership action, with the title race heating up and another Old Firm clash inevitably on the horizon.
The intensity, drama, and late twist ensured this latest chapter in Scottish football's greatest rivalry delivered everything fans had anticipated and more.
