Celtic’s thrilling Premier Sports Cup final victory over Rangers on Sunday was one for the ages.
With six goals, drama, contentious decisions, and a penalty shootout, the Hampden showdown didn’t disappoint.
The Hoops weren’t at the races from the off. Other than a brief 10 to 15-minute spell in the second 45, they didn’t conjure up much, failing to turn up on the big occasion. Still, it is a mark of an elite team that they can win, even in a cup final, when they don’t play particularly well.
That is exactly what the Bhoys did with Kasper Schmeichel and Co. coming up trumps on spot-kicks to take the cup back to Parkhead.
How the World Media Reacted
Reaction to the topsy-turvy final has been widespread across the globe.
Spain’s Marca reflected on the fan-violence pre-match and highlighted how Celtic have now overtaken Rangers in major trophies won (via RecordSport): “It was a thrilling final, which began with a clash between supporters outside Hampden Park before kick-off,” they wrote.
“With this victory, the white-and-green team overtook the titles of its eternal rival.”
Over in Germany, Kicker explained that although Rangers put in a valiant effort on Sunday, Celtic remain the dominant force in Scottish football (via RecordSport). They said: “Rangers started briskly, but Celtic increasingly took control of the game as the first half progressed.
“Celtic are the dominant force in Scotland though and continued that in the end.”
Rangers’ Misery Highlighted
Elsewhere, in Belgium, particular focus was put on Philippe Clement and the situation at Rangers. DH Les Sports outlined how Celtic have plunged the Ibrox club into crisis with yet another cup final loss (via RecordSport): “It is misery for Philippe Clement,” they penned.
“The countryman and Rangers are at breaking point after a good display but not the result he wanted against the rivals again. He has still not enjoyed a victory over Celtic in six games.”
Clement will get another opportunity to beat Celtic on January 2 at Ibrox in the Scottish Premiership.
Celtic need to turn up that day and look to inflict yet more pain on their city rivals, this time with league points at stake.
