Hamza Igamane came off the bench to score a late winner as Rangers edged past Celtic 3-2 in a pulsating Old Firm derby at Celtic Park, marking their first away victory over their rivals since 2020.
Early dominance and first-half control
Rangers took control early, with Nico Raskin opening the scoring in the fourth minute following a well-worked corner routine.
Mohamed Diomande doubled the lead in the 37th minute, putting Barry Ferguson’s side in a strong position before the break.
Despite their impressive first-half display, Rangers struggled to maintain their dominance in the second period.
Celtic, buoyed by their recent Europa League qualification after overcoming Fenerbahce in a penalty shootout, mounted a spirited comeback.
Celtic’s fightback and dramatic finale
Daizen Maeda reignited the contest just three minutes into the second half, heading home a pinpoint cross from Jota.
The equalizer arrived in the 75th minute when Reo Hatate found the net, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
With the momentum swinging in Celtic’s favor, Ferguson turned to his bench, introducing Tom Lawrence, Igamane, and Clinton Nsiala in a bid to turn the tide.
The decision proved decisive as Igamane delivered the crucial goal in the 88th minute, unleashing a powerful strike to seal a memorable victory for Rangers.
Tactical battles and key performances
The fixture saw the return of away fans for the first time since 2023, with strict security measures in place.
Celtic, missing key players, fielded young Polish defender Maik Nawrocki for only his third start of the season, while captain Callum McGregor was sidelined due to injury.
Rangers, opting for Ridvan Yilmaz on the left in place of Jefte, started with intensity.
Celtic’s goalkeeper, Kasper Schmeichel, was called into action early, tipping Raskin’s effort behind for a corner that ultimately led to the opening goal.
Despite late pressure from Celtic, Rangers held firm, with goalkeeper Jack Butland producing crucial saves to deny Hatate and Jota.
Ferguson’s substitutions proved pivotal, with Igamane’s strike securing three invaluable points in the Scottish Premiership title race.
A significant victory
The result not only ends Rangers’ long wait for a win at Celtic Park but also tightens the race at the top of the table.
With both teams vying for domestic supremacy, this victory could provide Rangers with the momentum needed as the season enters its decisive phase.
🇲🇦 What. A. Ping.pic.twitter.com/aUvVHvRZy8
— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) March 16, 2025
