Celtic 3–1 Rangers — Match Review

Celtic are heading to the League Cup Final after a thrilling 3–1 extra-time win over Rangers, and it was a performance full of control, grit, and real quality when it mattered most.

The first half saw Rangers start brightly, creating a couple of decent chances, but Celtic gradually took command of the game. Once they settled, the difference in composure and structure was clear — Celtic dictated play, moved the ball confidently, and carved out opportunities that really should’ve seen them further ahead by the break.

In the second half, a dodgy penalty gave Rangers a lifeline they didn’t really deserve. It shifted momentum briefly, and they pressed hard in the early stages after the restart, forcing Celtic onto the back foot. But crucially, the Hoops stayed calm and rode out the storm — helped by a brilliant save from Schmeichel that kept the scores level.

As extra time arrived, Celtic’s superior fitness and quality began to tell. Two well-worked goals sealed the win and confirmed the dominance that had been building all evening. Rangers had their moments, but across the full 120 minutes, there was only one team in real control.

It should’ve been more comfortable on the scoreboard, but the performance itself was everything fans wanted: disciplined, dangerous, and decisive when it mattered most.

Celtic march on to the final. 🍀