GLASGOW, Scotland (AP) – Fans invaded the field and clashed after Celtic defeated Rangers on penalties in the Scottish Cup quarter-finals on Sunday.
Supporters from both teams were run down from the stands during the game at Ibrox, smoke bombs were thrown, and there were several altercations before the situation was brought under control.
The match ended 0-0, but Celtic won the shootout 4-2 and advanced to the semi-finals. Tomas Kvankala’s winning kick prompted wild celebrations from the away fans, some of whom ran onto the field.
Hundreds of Rangers fans then followed, missiles were thrown at them, and police and stewards had to erect a fence to restore order.
“No one wants to see this in football,” Rangers manager Danny Rolle told Premier Sports.
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill added: “It’s disappointing. I hope the performance doesn’t fade away.”
The Scottish Football Association announced that it had launched an investigation into the incident.
“Scottish Football Association condemns the actions of the supporters entering the field of play,” the Scottish Football Association said in a statement, adding: “An immediate investigation will take place.”
The rivalry between Rangers and Celtic is one of the fiercest in sport, with Glasgow Giants long the reigning champions of Scottish football. However, Hearts are top of the Scottish league this season, with Rangers and Celtic looking to catch up.
“Old Firm matches are explosive matches, they always have been, and that’s probably one of the reasons why the derby is one of the best in the world,” O’Neill said.
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