Celtic Advances After Penalty Shootout Victory Over Rangers Amidst Fan Clashes

Celtic secured a place in the Scottish Cup semi-finals after defeating Rangers 4-2 in a penalty shootout following a goalless 120 minutes at Ibrox Stadium on Sunday, March 8, 2026. The match was marred by chaotic scenes as fans from both sides clashed on the pitch after the final whistle.

Dramatic Penalty Shootout Decides Old Firm Clash

Despite dominating throughout the match, Rangers failed to break the deadlock, with a goal disallowed by VAR for handball during extra time. Celtic, who didn’t register a single shot on target in 120 minutes, capitalized on their opponents’ misfortune in the shootout. Rangers’ James Tavernier and Djeidi Gassama both missed their penalties, while Tomas Cvancara ultimately scored the winning kick for Celtic.

Fan Disorder at Ibrox

The victory was overshadowed by significant disorder as supporters from both Celtic and Rangers invaded the pitch immediately after the shootout. Missiles were thrown, and flares were ignited as police and stewards struggled to regain control of the situation. This marked the first time in almost a decade that an away allocation of this size was permitted at an Old Firm match, and the occasion was unfortunately marred by violence.

Celtic’s Cup Run Continues

With Hearts, Aberdeen, Motherwell, and Hibernian already eliminated from the competition, Martin O’Neill’s Celtic are now considered strong favorites to lift the Scottish Cup trophy. They will discover their semi-final opponents following the conclusion of the St Mirren vs. Partick Thistle match.

Rangers’ Season Hopes Diminish

The defeat means Rangers are now out of contention for both domestic cup competitions and European tournaments, leaving the Scottish Premiership title as their only remaining opportunity to secure silverware this season.

Match Details

• Match: Rangers vs. Celtic, Scottish Cup Quarter-Final
• Date: March 8, 2026
• Venue: Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow
• Attendance: 51,215
• Result: Rangers 0-0 Celtic (Celtic win 4-2 on penalties)

More to follow…