Rangers secured a dominant 3-0 Premier Sports Cup quarter-final victory over Celtic at Ibrox after deploying tactical adjustments that completely overwhelmed their city rivals.
Manager Derek McInnes deployed James Penrice in a fluid midfield shape to control 53 percent possession, exposing severe structural vulnerabilities as the hosts outshot their opponents 15 to seven.
This strategic approach left Celtic goalkeeper Sam Johnstone and defender Cameron Carter-Vickers completely exposed throughout the afternoon.
Controversial Penalty Area Decision
The fallout from the domestic tie has also featured a prominent refereeing oversight.
The match official failed to award a spot-kick when Rangers defender Olwethu Makhanya brought down Kasper Hogh.
Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, former FIFA referee Keith Hackett addressed the incident.
“With the referee not awarding a penalty kick then looking at this clip I am surprised that there was no VAR intervention,” he said.
Hackett added: “Celtic have every right to be disappointed that a penalty kick was not awarded.”
Mounting Pressure For Midweek
The comprehensive defeat inflicts significant psychological damage on Martin O’Neill’s side.
The Celtic manager must now resolve these severe tactical flaws ahead of a demanding European schedule.
Celtic host Hungarian side Ferencvaros in the Europa League on Thursday before welcoming Rangers to Celtic Park for a crucial league fixture on Sunday.
