Rangers and Celtic Fans Clash on Pitch After Scottish Cup Tie

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  • March 8, 2026 at 4:40 PM ET
  • Est. Read: 2 Mins
Rangers and Celtic Fans Clash on Pitch After Scottish Cup TieAI-generated illustration — does not depict real events

Key Takeaways

Rangers and Celtic fans clashed on the pitch after a Scottish Cup tie in Glasgow. The incident occurred following Celtic's penalty shootout victory over Rangers, with both sets of fans running onto the field and engaging in altercations. Police and stewards intervened to restore order.

  • Fans from both teams invaded the pitch at Ibrox Stadium after Celtic's 4-2 penalty win
  • Missiles were thrown, and police formed a barrier between opposing supporters
  • Police Scotland described the scenes as 'shameful' and 'despicable'
  • The Scottish Football Association has launched an investigation into the incident
  • Both clubs have been urged to cooperate with authorities in the probe

Fans of Rangers and Celtic clashed on the pitch following a Scottish Cup tie at Ibrox Stadium in Glasgow. The disorder broke out after Celtic secured a 4-2 victory over Rangers in a penalty shootout, advancing to the competition's semi-finals.

The trouble began when some Celtic fans ran onto the field to celebrate their team's win. Hundreds of Rangers supporters then followed suit, leading to altercations and missiles being thrown. Police officers and stewards quickly intervened, forming a barrier between the two sets of supporters to restore order.

Police Scotland described the scenes as 'shameful' and 'despicable'. Chief Superintendent Kate Stephen condemned the behavior of some fans, stating that it must be condemned by everyone involved in football and wider society. She also mentioned that a number of arrests had been made and that Police Scotland would work with both clubs and the Scottish Football Association to carry out a robust investigation.

The Scottish Football Association released a statement condemning the behavior of supporters who entered the field of play, announcing an immediate investigation in line with their Judicial Panel Protocol. The association also urged both clubs to cooperate fully with authorities during the probe.

Both Celtic manager Martin O'Neill and Rangers head coach Danny Rohl expressed disappointment at the events that unfolded after the match. O'Neill acknowledged a 'fracas' involving a spectator and a member of his backroom team, while Rohl stated he did not witness the pitch invasion but hoped such incidents would not overshadow the game's positive atmosphere.

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