Celtic suffered a gut-wrenching 3-2 defeat at the hands of Rangers at Celtic Park, with a dramatic late goal sealing the visitors’ victory. The Hoops fought back brilliantly after a dismal first half but ultimately fell short in a competitive game. Here’s how each player fared in the Glasgow Derby.
Celtic Player Ratings
Kasper Schmeichel – 5
The veteran goalkeeper had a mixed afternoon. Made a couple of strong saves but looked shaky at times, particularly with his distribution, almost gifting Rangers a goal in the first half.
Alistair Johnston – 7
One of Celtic’s more consistent performers on the day. Defended well, put in a shift up and down the right flank, and delivered some dangerous crosses.
Cameron Carter-Vickers – 6
A typically strong and physical display, but struggled to contain Rangers’ attacking movement, especially in transition.
Maik Nawrocki – 7
Made some crucial interventions and showed good positional awareness. Looked more composed as the game progressed.
Jeffrey Schlupp – 6
Energetic and dynamic on the left side, contributing both defensively and going forward. Got caught out for the opening goal but improved as the match wore on.
Arne Engels – 6
Kept things ticking in midfield and showed good composure under pressure. Had a couple of promising efforts from distance but was unable to make a decisive impact.
Reo Hatate – 8
One of Celtic’s standout performers. Took his goal brilliantly to bring Celtic level and was at the heart of everything creative in midfield.
Luke McCowan – 7
A competent outing for the midfielder, showing great vision and energy. Assisted Hatate’s goal with a perfectly timed pass.
Nicolas Kuhn – 5
Struggled to impose himself and was substituted at half-time. A frustrating performance where he failed to influence the game.
Daizen Maeda – 9
Celtic’s best player on the day. Scored a superb header to spark the comeback and caused Rangers’ defence problems throughout with his relentless pressing and movement.
Jota – 6
Provided the assist for Maeda’s goal and was a threat whenever he had the ball. However, he faded as the game wore on and couldn’t produce a moment of magic late on.
Substitutes
Adam Idah – 6
Brought on at half-time but had limited impact. Held the ball up well at times but didn’t get a clear sight of goal.
Yang Hyun-Jun – 6
Tried to inject energy on the right but struggled to find space against a disciplined Rangers defence.
Final Thoughts
Celtic showed tremendous fight to claw their way back into the game after a poor first half, but the late sucker punch from Hamza Igamane proved to be the difference. Maeda and Hatate were positives for the Hoops, but defensive mistakes and a sluggish start cost them dearly. Brendan Rodgers will need to rally the team against Hearts at Celtic Park after the international break.
