Scotland

Celtic’s dramatic journey to the Scottish Gas Scottish Cup final was anything but straightforward, as they survived a spirited St Mirren challenge in a chaotic 6-2 extra-time victory at Hampden. Despite racing into an early lead, defensive lapses and resilience from St Mirren forced the contest beyond regulation time. Mikael Mandron’s brace brought parity and threatened an upset, exposing vulnerabilities in Martin O’Neill’s side.

Celtic’s pursuit of redemption sets the tone for a high-stakes SFA Cup semi-final clash with St Mirren, a side that has already inflicted significant damage on their domestic ambitions this season. The scars of December’s League Cup final defeat still linger, not merely as a result but as a tactical lesson in vulnerability. Under new leadership, Celtic now return to Hampden Park with renewed structure and sharper intent, determined to correct past errors.