Celtic fend off Rangers with Kyogo double the difference in Viaplay Cup showdown – 5 talking points

Kyogo was the difference for Celtic as they fended off a Rangers fightback to retain the Viaplay Cup in a breathless final at Hampden.

The Japanese star put the holders 2-0 up before Alfredo Morelos pulled one back and a 2-1 final score. The thunderous atmosphere lent itself to a nervy start as both sides settled into the occasion. Daizen Maeda sent a wayward cross behind for a goal-kick in a dangerous position and John Lundstram had a chance at the other end but couldn't force his shot through a sea of green and white.

Rangers found their feet quicker than their rivals and were the better side for the first 20 minutes, seeing more of the ball than Ange Postecoglou's team who were uncharacteristically slack in their passing. Michael Beale's team were there to take advantage of every slip too and their quick, decisive counter-attacks looked like the best bet for where the first goal would come from. Once the Hoops did find their feet though, Allan McGregor found himself a busy man. He was quick off his line to deny Kyogo after a long ball caught Connor Goldson and Ben Davies napping and was in action again just seconds later to push a powerful Jota effort wide.

Rangers were getting plenty of joy down Greg Taylor's flank and they were inches from the opener when James Tavernier fizzed one across goal. Carter-Vickers had to deal with it and cut it out at the front post and hearts were in mouths as directed it behind, just past Joe Hart's near post.

Kyogo was looking increasingly dangerous as the interval approached and after spurning two big chances, it was him who found the opener. He sent one into the side netting after Aaron Mooy picked Ryan Kent's pocket and headed another over the bar from an Alistair Johnston cross