Scottish Premiership: Rangers beat Celtic to win Viaplay Cup

Viaplay Cup Final: Rangers 2-1 Celtic

Rangers have won the Viaplay Cup after beating Celtic 2-1 in the final at Hampden Park. Alfredo Morelos gave Rangers the lead in the first half with a clinical finish, before Kyogo Furuhashi equalised for Celtic early in the second half. However, Fashion Sakala's strike in extra time proved to be the winner.

The victory gives Rangers their first major trophy since 2021, and it is the club's first Viaplay Cup triumph since 2011.

Rangers dominate first half

Rangers started the game brightly and took the lead in the 15th minute. Ryan Kent's cross found Morelos, who controlled the ball well before firing it into the bottom corner.

Rangers continued to dominate the first half and could have extended their lead on several occasions. However, they were unable to find a second goal and went into half-time with a slender advantage.

Celtic fight back in second half

Celtic came out strongly in the second half and equalised in the 53rd minute. Furuhashi was played through on goal and made no mistake with his finish.

The goal gave Celtic momentum, and they began to take control of the game. Rangers were forced to defend deep, and they were unable to create any clear-cut chances.

Rangers win in extra time

The game went into extra time, and Rangers regained the lead in the 95th minute. Sakala was played in behind the Celtic defence and slotted the ball past Joe Hart.

Celtic pushed for an equaliser in the remaining minutes, but Rangers held on to secure the victory.

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Rangers manager Michael Beale was delighted with his team's performance.

"I'm so proud of the players," he said. "They showed great character and resilience to come back and win the game."

Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou was disappointed with the result, but he praised his team's effort.

"We gave it everything, but it wasn't enough on the night," he said.

The Viaplay Cup win is a major boost for Rangers as they look to challenge for the Scottish Premiership title this season.