Celtic left Ibrox with their place in the Scottish Cup semi-finals secured after a draining afternoon that stretched to penalties. Martin O’Neill’s side had to dig in for long spells before finally coming through the shootout.
Rangers controlled large parts of the game. They pushed Celtic deep and sent a steady stream of balls into the box, forcing the defence to react again and again. Celtic rarely kept possession for long periods and had to rely on concentration and positioning to keep the score level.
O’Neill admitted afterwards that the schedule had taken a toll on his players. The match was Celtic’s fourth in ten days, and the energy levels showed late in the game as players began to tire. Instead of chasing the ball, Celtic focused on shape and discipline.
The Irishman praised the way the Bhoys handled the pressure. Blocks, clearances and brave defending kept Rangers from turning their territorial control into goals. O’Neill also pointed to the leadership shown on the pitch, especially with Callum McGregor missing and others having to step forward.
He said: (Premier Sports), “They refused to lose the game.
“We defended magnificently. Boys throwing their bodies on the line.
“Scales was just absolutely outstanding. Outstanding, as was the whole team.
“He took over the captain’s armband and he led by example.
“Old Firm games are explosive games. They always have been.”
Daizen Maeda thought he had given Celtic the lead in the first half when he headed home from close range. The move began from a flick-on by Liam Scales, but VAR ruled the defender offside in the build-up and the goal was chalked off.
Rangers continued to press after that moment and created several dangerous situations. Viljami Sinisalo had to react quickly when crosses dropped near the six-yard box while defenders stepped in to block shots before they could reach goal.
When the match moved to penalties, Celtic kept their composure. Rangers missed two of their attempts, leaving Tomas Cvancara with the chance to finish it. The striker rolled his kick into the corner and sent Celtic through to Hampden.
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