Brendan Rodgers couldn’t contain his delight as he spoke to the media after Celtic’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Rangers at Ibrox.

The Celtic manager exuded pride not just for the result, but for the manner in which his players achieved it.

“It was a brilliant win for us,” began Rodgers, whose tactical approach to the game was vindicated by the result and the performance. “You’ve got to come here and play like a man. Even though we’ve got a young group and you’ve got 50,000 against you, you’ve got to come here and show up.”

Rodgers continued on Sky Sports, “So happy for the players. It’s the first sort of big result they’ve had together.” This remark highlighted the developmental aspect of the current Celtic side, many members of which are still finding their feet in the rigours of Scottish football and the broader European landscape. For them, this win was not just about three points; it was a formative experience that could shape the trajectory of their season, perhaps even their Celtic careers.

“For the new guys to come in and feel what a win like that feels like is great,” Rodgers concluded. Indeed, players like Liam Scales and Kyogo Furuhashi, who have quickly become fan favourites, will no doubt be buoyed by the unique sensation of securing a derby win away from home. It’s a feeling that can instil a sense of belonging, not just within the team but also within the tapestry of a club’s storied history.

For Rodgers, the win serves as more than just a personal milestone or a tactical masterstroke. It represents a collective coming-of-age moment for a young squad, an invaluable lesson in resilience, unity, and the sheer power of self-belief. And as they prepare for the challenges that lie ahead, these are qualities that will stand them in good stead, both on and off the pitch.