Celtic beat Rangers on Sunday afternoon in a thrilling Viaplay League Cup final at Hampden. Ange Postecoglou’s team collected the first trophy of the season thanks to a brace from Kyogo.
The National Stadium in Glasgow’s East End was awash with color and noise as the fierce rivals went on a collision course to determine where the League Cup would go. By five-fifteen, the Rangers fans had abandoned their final as Celtic’s celebrations began. In truth, the celebrations haven’t really stopped since before the game started. After Kyogo opened the scoring, there were great scenes at half time in the Celtic box.
Kyogo’s goals were clinical in nature, but the build-up game was classic Celtic, offering up runs, showing determination to push forward and being available for the ball. Aaron Mooy, who played a role in both goals, slid the ball over to Greg Taylor, who fired the cross into the path of Maeda. The Japanese striker didn’t connect but his move freed Kyogo, who couldn’t miss.
Similarly, the second goal was forged in midfield. Callum McGregor found Mooy in empty space, who slid the ball over to Reo Hatate, who cut it back allowing Kyogo to double Celtic’s lead.
The Rangers came back and threatened for a period, but it came to nothing. Perhaps the scoreline made the atmosphere more tense as the game entered its final twenty minutes. Ange made some changes to freshen up his team, but Celtic held their own in defense and created chances in attack.
In truth, they could have been more and there would be little legitimate complaint from the Rangers. Celtic were the best team on the field and the fans were superior in the stands. There are still two trophies to play for, the Scottish League and Cup, which offer more excitement as we approach the end of the 2022/23 season.
