Celtic booked their place in the Scottish League Cup final with a hard-fought 3-1 win over 10-man Rangers in extra time at Hampden Park. The Hoops, led by interim boss Martin O'Neill, dominated the match from the onset, but Rangers showed resilience to force the game into extra time.
The match got off to a lively start, with Celtic taking the lead through Jonny Kenny's 25th-minute header from Arne Engels' corner. However, Rangers' hopes were dashed when Thelo Aasgaard was sent off in the 39th minute for a reckless challenge on Anthony Ralston.
Despite being reduced to 10 men, Rangers managed to stay in the game, and their efforts paid off when James Tavernier converted a penalty in the 81st minute to level the score. The game headed into extra time, where Celtic's superior numbers eventually told.
Callum McGregor restored Celtic's lead in the 93rd minute with a long-range strike, and Callum Osmand sealed the win with his first senior goal in the 109th minute, slotting home Kieran Tierney's cross.
O'Neill, who returned to Celtic as interim boss on Monday, celebrated his 17th win in 28 Old Firm matches. "I was 73 on Monday - I'm 94 now!" he joked in the post-match interview. "Delighted to have won the game, for a start. I thought we played splendidly 11 vs 11, then we lost impetus."
Celtic will face St Mirren in the final on December 14 at Hampden Park, looking to retain their title. With this win, O'Neill's side demonstrated their strength and depth, overcoming a spirited Rangers performance to reach the final.
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