Fans Clash During Rangers vs Celtic Scottish Cup Tie

Scottish FA Launches Investigation Following Post-Match Clashes

A probe has been initiated by the Scottish Football Association (SFA) into incidents that occurred on the pitch following Sunday’s Scottish Cup quarterfinal between Celtic and Rangers in Glasgow. The match, which was attended by 7,500 fans, ended with a 4-2 penalty shootout victory for Celtic.

According to reports, dozens of visiting Celtic supporters invaded the pitch to celebrate their win, prompting an incursion from hundreds of Rangers fans who attempted to attack their rivals. Police and stewards eventually formed a barrier across the pitch, but not before missiles, fireworks, and physical altercations took place.

The Glasgow derby, also known as the Old Firm, is one of the oldest and most intense in world football, with a history dating back to 1888. The match was seen as a test for greater numbers of away fans, following previous hooligan clashes between the two teams.

Celtic players, including Tomas Cvancara and Julian Araujo, were involved in incidents on the pitch, with Cvancara being interviewed on television with bloodstains on his kit. The SFA has condemned the “behaviour from supporters entering the field of play” and stated that an investigation will be carried out immediately.

The incident has sparked a reaction from both teams’ managers, Martin O’Neill and Danny Rohl, who expressed disappointment at the events that unfolded.

Source: Al Jazeera