Tensions boiled over in Glasgow after Rangers surrendered a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Celtic in a dramatic and controversial derby clash.
Rangers appeared to be cruising at halftime after Youssef Chermiti struck twice inside the opening 30 minutes, scoring in the 8th and 26th minutes to give the visitors full control. The Ibrox side were dominant, clinical, and looked set to secure a massive derby victory.But the second half told a different story.Celtic pulled one back through Kieran Tierney in the 56th minute, shifting the momentum and igniting the home crowd. Rangers defended resolutely as the clock ticked down, seemingly on course to hold their 2-1 advantage.Then came the moment that changed everything.Deep into stoppage time, Celtic were awarded a penalty after a contentious challenge inside the box. Reo Hatate initially missed from the spot in the 90+1 minute, sparking wild celebrations among Rangers players. However, after a scramble and quick follow-up reaction, Hatate converted the rebound to make it 2-2.
The decision to award the penalty immediately triggered furious reactions from the Rangers camp.Goalscorer Youssef Chermiti did not hold back in his post-match interview.“WTF is that? The referee was invited to give them a point,” he said angrily. “It was never a penalty. Everyone saw it. We were in control. We deserved the win.”Chermiti went even further, questioning the credibility of officiating standards and calling on the Scottish Football Association to review the incident.
“At this level, these mistakes cannot happen. If this is how decisions are made, then something is very wrong. The SFA should look at this seriously because today it cost us two points.”The explosive comments are likely to draw attention from authorities, with the derby already under intense scrutiny due to its magnitude and history.
For Rangers, it will feel like two points dropped after a commanding first-half performance. For Celtic, it was a dramatic late escape that keeps their momentum alive.But beyond the result, it is Chermiti’s furious reaction and the controversial penalty decision that will dominate headlines in the coming days.