Celtic advanced to the Scottish Cup semi-finals after defeating Rangers 4-2 on penalties following a 0-0 draw at Ibrox. The match ended in disorder as supporters from both sides invaded the pitch, leading to clashes and a police investigation. Several arrests were made amid reports of injuries to officers and members of the public.
The Scottish Cup quarter-final between Rangers and Celtic on March 8, 2026, at Ibrox Stadium concluded with a 0-0 draw after 90 minutes, forcing a penalty shootout. Celtic goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo saved efforts from Rangers' James Tavernier and Djeidi Gassama, while Tomas Cvancara converted the decisive spot-kick for Celtic. Other successful Celtic penalties came from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Auston Trusty, and Reo Hatate. Rangers' Nedim Bajrami and Ryan Naderi scored theirs, securing Celtic's 4-2 victory and their first win at Rangers in the competition since 1957.
During the match, Celtic had a goal by Daizen Maeda disallowed for offside via VAR, with Liam Scales ruled just offside on a flick-on. Rangers' Emmanuel Fernandez also saw his effort overturned due to handball on the line. Celtic made five changes to their lineup, including Auston Trusty, who was serving a league ban but eligible for the cup, and Liam Scales as captain amid injuries to players like Callum McGregor and Kasper Schmeichel. Rangers introduced Nasser Djiga and Mohamed Diomande, with Mikey Moore and Ryan Naderi overcoming doubts to start.
Post-match celebrations turned violent as Celtic supporters entered the pitch first, followed by Rangers fans, resulting in clashes. Flares were exchanged, and some supporters tangled with players. Commentator Rory Hamilton described it as an 'ugly, ugly end to what has been a superb game,' calling the scenes 'lunacy' and 'pointless.' Police Scotland reported extreme hostility, with officers and stewards forming barriers. Chief Superintendent Kate Stephen condemned the 'despicable' behavior, noting injuries and arrests. She stated, 'A number of arrests have already been made, and Police Scotland will now work with both clubs and the Scottish Football Association to carry out a robust investigation.' The Scottish Football Association also announced an immediate probe, with potential Football Banning Orders up to ten years for those involved.
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill deferred detailed comment, saying, 'You’re asking me a lot of political questions in this moment when I’m in a euphoric state. The fans have spilled over, big scenes at the end.' Sinisalo emphasized team spirit, telling Premier Sports, 'We’ve come here, beaten them and we’re into the next round of the cup. That’s what we’ll focus on... We’re playing for the badge and showing a bit of heart.' Neither club issued an official statement. This was the first time since 2018 that Celtic received the full Broomloan Road Stand allocation, though some entered without tickets, delaying security.
