Rangers produced a sensational second-half performance to overturn a deficit and secure a vital 3-1 victory over Celtic in a fiercely contested Old Firm derby at Celtic Park on Saturday.
Celtic's Bright Start Fades
The match began with the home side in the ascendancy. Celtic, desperate for a positive result, dominated the opening period and were rewarded in the 19th minute when Yang Hyun-Jun fired them into the lead with a superb strike. The hosts could have extended their advantage, but Rangers goalkeeper Jack Butland was in inspired form, making a series of crucial saves to keep his team within touching distance at the interval.
Rangers' Remarkable Second-Half Revival
The game transformed completely after the break. Rangers emerged with renewed purpose and intensity. The equaliser arrived swiftly as Youssef Chermiti tapped home from close range. The momentum had decisively shifted, and Chermiti capitalised again, pouncing on a defensive mistake from Auston Trusty to race clear and slot in his second, putting the visitors ahead.
Celtic were left reeling, and Rangers sealed a memorable win when substitute Mikey Moore drove a low shot past Kasper Schmeichel for the third goal. Moore had seen an earlier effort ruled out for offside, but there was no denying his decisive contribution this time.
Consequences for the Premiership Race and Celtic
This dramatic 3-1 defeat has significant ramifications. Rangers have now closed the gap on Scottish Premiership leaders Hearts to just three points and have drawn level on points with their arch-rivals Celtic. For Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy, the scrutiny is now intense; this result represents a sixth defeat in his first eight matches in charge.
The victory also extends Rangers' impressive unbeaten run in Old Firm fixtures to five consecutive games, solidifying their recent dominance in this historic rivalry. The pressure is now firmly on Celtic to respond as the title race takes another dramatic twist.
