Julian Araujo has played down the heated scenes that followed the final whistle at Ibrox as Celtic prepare for their next league test.
Martin O’Neill’s side fought back from two goals down to draw with Rangers on Sunday. The dramatic finish, which saw Reo Hatate force home a late equaliser after a frantic penalty sequence, sparked tension across the pitch once the match ended.
Several players from both teams became involved in a brief confrontation near the centre circle. Araujo was one of the Celtic players at the centre of the exchange, with Rangers pair Nicolas Raskin and Mikey Moore also involved before staff and teammates stepped in to separate the groups.
Speaking ahead of Celtic’s trip to Pittodrie to face Aberdeen, the defender suggested the incident was nothing more than the emotion of a derby spilling over at full-time.
He said: (Sky Sports), “A kind of wasted my time, to be honest.
“I don’t really care about what they say or what they have to do, to be honest.
“I think it’s just the heat of the moment.
“I think it was just part of the game.
“This is why it’s one of the most exciting derbies in the world.”
Celtic had spent the second half pushing Rangers back after struggling in the first. The change came once the midfield settled and the ball began moving quicker through central areas.
Reo Hatate’s influence helped the Hoops gain control and Rangers were forced deeper as the pressure built. That shift eventually led to the late equaliser that stunned the home crowd.
When games swing like that, emotions rarely settle quickly. Players have spent the entire game competing at full tilt and the final whistle often brings a release of frustration as much as relief.
Araujo’s response suggested he had little interest in extending the argument beyond the pitch. Attention quickly turns to Aberdeen, where Celtic need three points to keep pressure on the teams above them.
The defender’s message was simple. The derby moment has passed, and the focus now is on the next game.
