Hatate’s Late Drama Salvages Point for Celtic in Thrilling Old Firm Draw
Celtic rescued a 2-2 draw against Rangers at Ibrox in a pulsating Old Firm derby on Sunday, thanks to a dramatic late goal from Reo Hatate. The result keeps Celtic’s Scottish Premiership title hopes alive, though they trail league leaders Hearts by two points with a game in hand.
Chermiti’s Double Sets the Stage for a Dramatic Second Half
Rangers appeared to be cruising to victory after a stunning first-half display led by Youssef Chermiti. The Moroccan forward opened the scoring in the 8th minute with a spectacular overhead kick, leaving Celtic goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo with no chance ESPN. Chermiti doubled the lead in the 26th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse from Celtic Sky Sports.
Celtic Fight Back in Second Half
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill made changes at halftime, introducing Reo Hatate, and the move paid dividends. Kieran Tierney pulled a goal back for Celtic in the 56th minute, heading in Benjamin Nygren’s cross ESPN. The visitors continued to press, and a late penalty awarded for a handball by Dujon Sterling after a VAR review provided a lifeline.
Hatate’s Dramatic Equalizer
Jack Butland initially saved Hatate’s penalty, and also denied the rebound, but the Japanese midfielder was on hand to score on the third attempt in stoppage time, sparking wild celebrations among the Celtic players and supporters ESPN, Sky Sports.
Title Race Heats Up
The draw leaves Hearts six points clear at the top of the Scottish Premiership with nine fixtures remaining, with Rangers two points ahead of Celtic, who have a game in hand Yahoo Sports. The title race is set to go down to the wire.
Key Takeaways
- Youssef Chermiti scored a stunning brace for Rangers, including a spectacular overhead kick.
- Reo Hatate’s late equalizer secured a valuable point for Celtic.
- Hearts remain in control of the title race, but Celtic’s game in hand keeps them in contention.
- The match was characterized by late drama and a spirited comeback from Celtic.