Scotland: Celtic almost clinch another title
Celtic 2 - 1 Rangers
Celtic practically secured their third consecutive Scottish Premiership title with a win against a 10-player Rangers team in an intense Glasgow Derby.
In a match pulsating with energy, Brendan Rodgers' side, sitting three points ahead with just three games to go, knew that securing a victory would almost clinch glory.
Right from the start, the Hoops asserted their dominance over their Glasgow rivals. It was Matt O'Riley who finally broke the deadlock in the 35th minute, capitalising on numerous earlier opportunities.
Immediately after the break, John Lundstram inadvertently turned the ball into his own net and was subsequently shown a red card for a reckless challenge, leaving Rangers depleted. Just before that, Cyriel Dessers managed to pull one back for the visitors. Game on?
Celtic earned a penalty when Mohamed Diomande fouled Alistair Johnston in the box. O'Riley stepped up, but his effort was saved by Jack Butland.
Although Rodgers' team seemed poised for a comfortable victory, they faced some late pressure from Rangers but ultimately held on, extending their lead over their city rivals to six points and seven goals with just two games remaining.y
Their upcoming match against Kilmarnock presents an opportunity to secure Rodgers' first silverware of his second stint in charge.
The anticipation among Celtic supporters was incredible before the game, as they anticipated an important victory. A remarkable save by Butland early on denied them an early lead, setting the tone for a fiercely contested match.
The stadium erupted as Celtic continued to dominate, with Butland once again proving instrumental for Rangers, thwarting James Forrest's strike.
O'Riley came close with a powerful free-kick, narrowly missing the target, while Fabio Silva squandered a golden opportunity for the visitors, failing to convert from close range.
Celtic pressed on, with Callum McGregor threatening from outside the box, only to see his effort narrowly miss the mark. Moments later, Silva missed a glaring chance, heading wide from Dujon Sterling's cross just eight yards out.
It finished 2-1 and incredible scenes greeted the players at full time.
Sean, a Celtic fan from Glasgow, said: "Wasn't our best performance but we deserved the win. We are very close to having a very successful season now. Winning the cup against Rangers would be an amazing way to end the season."
Mark, a Rangers fan from Preston, was angry with his side's performance. He said: "We just aren't good enough. This isn't a great Celtic side but they are still so much better than us."
