Celtic clinched a dramatic Scottish League Cup triumph over arch-rivals Rangers on Sunday afternoon courtesy of Christopher Jullien’s second-half effort from a free-kick.
Rangers were the team on top throughout at Hampden Park but an inspired display from Celtic goalkeeper Fraser Forster kept Steven Gerrard’s side at bay.
And Jullien’s side-footed finish from a free-kick – despite appearing to be in an offside position – was enough to deliver the killer blow despite Rangers’ constant pressure.
The Gers could have immediately responded to Celtic’s opening goal in the Glasgow rain after Alfredo Morelos was pulled back by Jeremie Frimpong inside the box, with the teenage defender sent off for the foul.
But the Colombian wasted the follow-up spot-kick, with Forster pushing his tame effort away to preserve Celtic’s lead.
And despite being down to 10 men, the Hoops held on to claim a 10th successive domestic trophy and their fourth straight Scottish League Cup.
But how did the Celtic stars perform? Express Sport rates the winners.
Celtic player ratings vs Rangers – Scottish League Cup final
Fraser Forster – 10
A phenomenal performance from the England international, who denied Ryan Jack early on with a stunning one-handed stop. Also kept out Morelos’ penalty, albeit the Rangers star’s strike was below-par. That wasn’t all though, as Forster constantly frustrated Rangers. Won the match for the Hoops.
Jeremie Frimpong – 6
Poor for the red card. Deserved a dismissal for pulling back Morelos. Will be sure to thank his team-mates for making sure he ended the day with a winner’s medal. But that said, was impressive in his battles with Ryan Kent – generally coming out on top.
Christopher Jullien – 7
Scored the crucial winning goal – though it would have been ruled out had VAR been available in Scottish football. Celtic’s only shot on target all game. Helped manage Morelos well.
Kristoffer Ajer – 7
Got in front of Jermain Defoe well late on to prevent the Rangers substitute scoring a late equaliser. Key in keeping Rangers out.
Jonny Hayes – 5
Not at his best and a poor challenge on Joe Aribo, though he did his best to get forward.
Scott Brown – 6
Typically tenacious, though Celtic were often overrun through the middle. Improved second half to help his side stay solid defensively.
Callum McGregor – 7
Another possibly fortunate not to be more harshly punished for several poor challenges, but one of the Bhoys’ better performers going forward.
Mohamed Elyounoussi – 5
Way below his best and rightfully replaced at half-time.
Ryan Christie – 7
Provided the delivery for Jullien’s goal and was impressive throughout. Never stopped running.
James Forrest – 5
Another of Celtic’s poorer performers, giving the ball away too many times and on periphery. Hooked on 65 minutes.
Lewis Morgan – 5
Hardly involved, bar a coming-together with Jack which left the Rangers man with a worrying-looking knee injury before he returned to his feet.
Substitutes
Nir Bitton – 6
Better than Elyounoussi.
Mikey Johnston – 5
Missed a huge chance one-on-one to score a killer second.
Odsonne Edouard – 6
Helped Celtic get into the game more and should’ve had an assist when he released Johnston on goal.