Celtic edged closer to a third consecutive Scottish Premiership title with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over 10-man Rangers in a dramatic Old Firm derby on Saturday, securing a six-point lead at the top of the table.
The hosts, sitting on 87 points, now require just one more point to clinch the trophy with two games remaining in the season. Manager Brendan Rodgers emphasized the importance of staying focused, saying, “Take nothing for granted, keep our composure. We have a lot of work to do in the week. Get our plan ready and then next Saturday we can have a bit of fun.”
The breakthrough came for Celtic in the 35th minute when Matt O’Riley scored with a left-footed shot from the edge of the area, following a cross from Callum McGregor. Three minutes later, Rangers’ John Lundstram inadvertently diverted a Daizen Maeda cross into his own net, doubling Celtic’s lead.
Rangers quickly responded, with Cyriel Dessers heading in from close range to reduce Celtic’s advantage. However, their hopes were dampened further when Lundstram received a red card for a studs-up challenge on Alistair Johnston just before halftime.
In the second half, Mohamed Diomande fouled O’Riley in the box, but Rangers’ keeper Jack Butland saved the resulting penalty to keep his team in contention.
Despite several chances for Celtic, including two disallowed goals from Maeda for offside, the hosts held on to their lead to secure the crucial victory.
While Celtic are on the verge of lifting the Premiership trophy, Rangers will have another opportunity to challenge their rivals in the Scottish Cup final on May 25. Celtic will face Kilmarnock on Wednesday, where a draw would be enough to secure the title.
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