Rangers secured their place in the Premier Sports Cup semi-finals with a commanding performance against Celtic at a packed Ibrox.
Captain Dan Neil opened the scoring in the 23rd minute with a well-placed side-footed finish, assisted by strong play from Ryan Naderi and Kevin Kelsy. Kelsy extended Rangers' lead in the second half with his first goal for the club. Neil sealed the victory just before the hour mark with a spectacular long-range strike, capping an impressive debut in the fixture.
Rangers will now face Aberdeen in the semi-finals at Hampden.
The result marks a significant win for manager Derek McInnes, whose side has now won four consecutive matches. This victory follows a challenging start to the season for the Glasgow club.
Rangers (4-4-2) lineup: Goalkeeper Ivor Pandur made no saves, with a comfortable outing. Defenders Dujon Sterling and Olwethu Makhanya received high marks for their defensive solidity, with Makhanya particularly noted for winning all his duels. Emmanuel Fernandez had a solid game despite a disallowed goal and a missed opportunity. James Penrice effectively contained opposition threats and provided strong set-piece delivery.
In midfield, Nicolas Raskin put in a significant work rate and maintained possession effectively. Kim Min-su linked play well, though he was denied a goal by the Celtic goalkeeper. Dan Neil was the standout performer, scoring two goals.
Djeidi Gassama was a consistent threat on the wing, while Ryan Naderi's physicality troubled Celtic's defense. Kevin Kelsy, after an early miss, found the net with an instinctive finish.
Manager Derek McInnes was rated highly for orchestrating what was described as the team's best performance under his management.
Celtic (4-3-3) lineup: Goalkeeper Sam Johnstone had a difficult match, marked by a crucial early error. Defenders Colby Donovan and Cameron Carter-Vickers struggled defensively. Liam Scales made a goal-line clearance but was also involved in a weak clearance that led to Rangers' final goal.
In midfield, Mika Baur and captain Callum McGregor were largely ineffective, lacking influence and energy. Benjamin Nygren was anonymous for much of the match.
Camilo Duran started brightly but faded as the game progressed. Sebastian Touenkti offered little in attack and was substituted at halftime.
Kasper Hogh's form was questioned, with limited service and poor general play.
Manager Martin O'Neill's side delivered one of their weaker Old Firm performances.