Rangers 3-0 Celtic: Old Firm Glory Sends Rangers Into Scottish League Cup Semi-Finals

Rangers produced a commanding 3-0 victory over Celtic in the Scottish League Cup on Sunday evening, September 13, 2026, at Ibrox Stadium. In the latest chapter of the Old Firm rivalry, Rangers were sharper, more clinical, and ultimately far more convincing, securing a statement win that sends them into the semi-finals and deepens Celtic’s disappointment in the cup competition.

The scoreline was emphatic, but the performance was built on discipline and ruthlessness. Rangers scored at key moments, defended their penalty area with authority, and took full advantage of Celtic’s inability to turn long spells of possession into genuine chances. For the home supporters, it was a night of celebration; for Celtic, it was a night of frustration and questions.

Match Overview

Rangers started with intensity and pressed Celtic high up the pitch. The opening goal arrived in the 22nd minute when a quick turnover in midfield allowed Rangers to attack with numbers. A precise pass split the defence, and the finish was calm and decisive. Ibrox erupted, and the tone of the match was set.

Celtic tried to respond by controlling the ball, but Rangers’ midfield blocked central lanes and forced the visitors wide. Clear chances were rare for Celtic, and Rangers always looked dangerous on the break. The second goal came in the 58th minute after a well-worked move down the left ended with a shot into the far corner.

The third goal arrived in the 84th minute, effectively ending any hope of a Celtic comeback. A late counter-attack was finished with confidence, and the Rangers players celebrated in front of the home crowd. The clean sheet was just as satisfying for the defence, which stood firm under pressure.

Key Moments

• 22nd minute: Rangers opened the scoring after a high turnover and a clinical finish.
• 35th minute: Celtic’s best chance of the first half was blocked by a last-ditch Rangers challenge.
• 58th minute: Rangers doubled the lead with a flowing move down the left.
• 72nd minute: Celtic pushed men forward, but Rangers’ goalkeeper made a strong save.
• 84th minute: A rapid counter-attack made it 3-0 and sealed the tie.
• 90th minute: Rangers saw out the closing stages comfortably to secure the clean sheet.

Tactical Story

Rangers set up in a compact shape and looked to spring forward quickly whenever Celtic lost the ball. Their midfield pressed with intelligence, cutting off the central passing lanes and forcing Celtic into sideways passes. When Rangers won possession, they attacked directly and with purpose.

Celtic dominated the ball for stretches but lacked penetration. Their wingers were often isolated, and crosses into the box were dealt with by Rangers’ centre-backs. The visitors’ build-up play was patient, but it became predictable, and Rangers were happy to defend the box and hit on the break.

The game highlighted the importance of efficiency in cup football. Rangers had fewer touches in the final third but created the better chances. Celtic’s possession statistics will look healthy, but the scoreboard tells the real story. In an Old Firm knockout tie, ruthlessness matters more than territory.

Standout Players

Rangers’ centre-forward was the focal point of the attack, scoring the opening goal and leading the line with strength and intelligence. The captain controlled the midfield, breaking up play and setting the tempo. At the back, the goalkeeper and central defenders were outstanding, keeping a clean sheet in one of the most intense fixtures in Scottish football.

For Celtic, the goalkeeper made several saves to prevent an even heavier defeat, while their central midfielder tried to drive the team forward. However, too many of Celtic’s attacking players were kept quiet by Rangers’ disciplined defensive structure. The visitors will need a response in their next domestic fixture.

Season Impact and What’s Next

The win sends Rangers into the Scottish League Cup semi-finals, where they will be confident of challenging for silverware. The Old Firm victory also provides a significant psychological boost, especially in a season where every meeting between the two clubs carries extra weight. Rangers will hope this result becomes a turning point.

Celtic, meanwhile, must regroup quickly. Cup elimination is always painful, particularly against their greatest rivals, but their league campaign remains important. The Scottish League Cup has often been a stage for dramatic Old Firm moments, and this 3-0 result will be remembered as one of the more one-sided recent meetings. For Rangers, the dream of lifting the trophy at Hampden Park is very much alive.