Celtic have claimed the bragging rights in the Glasgow Derby after beating Rangers at Ibrox. The Scottish Champions retained their place at the top of the table while putting four points between them and Michael Beale’s team.
In a game that had been weighted massively towards the hosts in the media and by bet makers, Brendan Rodgers put down a marker as Kyogo’s strike separated the sides. Eyebrows were raised when David Turnbull and Liam Scales were given the nod by the Irishman; however, his compatriot was solid and assured in defence as he helped keep a clean sheet.
Celtic had to defend but they had their chances to win the game by more. Liel Abada was denied by a superb Jack Butland save whilst Kyogo had two good opportunities in the first half prior to his goal. The goal itself was excellent. The Japanese striker latched onto a header from Matt O’Riley and volleyed the ball beyond Butland and into the net. It was a terrific strike and the visitors were good value.
🍀 "What a finish this is from Kyogo! A devastating finish!"
Celtic take a dramatic first-half lead at Ibrox! Analysis from the opening 45 is next on Sky Sports 📺 pic.twitter.com/bcmGVo5hCz
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) September 3, 2023
🗣️ "That looked like it was arrowing into the bottom corner!"
Celtic come so close to making it 2-0 at Ibrox – watch the action live on Sky Sports now! 📺 pic.twitter.com/WFigbSzqFF
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) September 3, 2023
Rangers fans might feel aggrieved that their goal was ruled out as Cyriel Dessers fouled Gustaf Lagerbielke. In real time, it looked as if the Swede dwelled on the ball for too long but replays showed that it was indeed a foul. VAR Alan Muir instructed Don Robertson to review it at the pitch side monitor and he concurred with the decision. The boos at full-time were not directed towards the officials, they were directed to the Rangers team and management.
Celtic now go into the International Break with 10 points, three wins and one draw. Rodgers has acknowledged that the results have been good, even if the performances haven’t been there. Celtic will only improve by working under Rodgers. The team will also benefit from the return to fitness of key players like Cameron Carter-Vickers, Reo Hatate and Maik Nawrocki for the next meeting between the teams in December.
