Kyogo Furuhashi scored twice as Celtic rallied past Rangers to claim their 21st Scottish League Cup final victory. The Japanese striker also scored twice in last year’s final, taking his total to 24 goals with two close range strikes either side of half-time.

Ange Postecoglou’s side could complete a domestic treble with victory over Gers. Michael Beale suffered his first defeat since taking charge in November, but victory keeps the Light Blues in the top flight and puts them into the quarter-finals of the Scottish Cup.

Kyogo’s first

Kyogo was the star for Celtic as they secured their sixth League Cup in seven years with a thrilling 2-1 win against Rangers at Hampden. The Japanese striker put them 2-0 ahead before Alfredo Morelos pulled one back for Rangers.

After just one minute, Kyogo caught Callum McGregor’s ball over the top and fired home at the near post – his first goal in a competitive game for Celtic. This goal provided them with much-needed encouragement after an injury-plagued season.

The Japanese striker had more to do, however, as he made a break for it behind Hibs’ defence and took an impressive touch before slotting it home under Matt Macey. A few minutes later he burst through again with another superb lob for the equaliser.

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Kyogo’s second

Celtic won the Scottish League Cup for the first time since 2011 as Kyogo Furuhashi scored twice to seal a thrilling win against Rangers. The Japanese striker struck first from close range just before half-time, then scored again 10 minutes later to put Ange Postecoglou’s side firmly in control.

Michael Beale suffered his first defeat as Celtic manager in November, keeping them on course for a domestic treble. They lead by nine points at the top of the league and are through to the quarter-finals.

After Kyogo had opened the scoring, The Light Blues responded admirably and gave themselves an opportunity when Morelos pulled one back. Unfortunately, Carl Starfelt made a costly foul in the box which allowed Tavernier to convert from the penalty. Morelos and fashion Sakala both played key roles in getting even but Furuhashi struck again late on for their seventh title in eight years to keep Hoops fans motivated.

Alfredo Morelos’s goal

Kyogo scored a second-half double to help Celtic defeat rivals Rangers and claim the Viaplay Cup. His stunning goal in last season’s final was followed up with two close range strikes that took his season total to 24 goals.

Celtic are now nine points clear at the top of the Premiership table and Ange Postecoglou looks set to repeat his two-trophy feat from last season, which he achieved under former boss Eddie Howe. Now they must focus on securing their league title and completing a domestic treble.

Gers were never able to break through Celtic’s defence, despite some good chances from Kent and Sakala. They never recovered their lead, with Kyogo scoring his second goal in the 88th minute to secure victory for Celtic.

Kyogo Furuhashi Double Secures Celtic Victory

Kyogo Furuhashi Scores Double for Celtic Victory

Kyogo Furuhashi scored two goals on either side of halftime to give Celtic their third trophy under manager Ange Postecoglou in the Scottish League Cup final against Rangers at Hampden Park. To cap off an incredible performance, Furuhashi finished off with one goal after each half-time in what proved to be a crucial stage.

The first half was an open one with plenty of chances for both sides. Celtic had the better start and Kyogo Furuhashi had their best opportunity when he met Daizen Maeda’s low cross with his head, but his header missed Joe Hart at his far post by inches.

After the break, Rangers came out fighting and had the first opportunity of the second half when Ryan Kent fired an effort against the post. However, Hibs were reduced to 10 men when Paul Hanlon was sent off for catching Liel Abada with his arm during an aerial challenge inside Celtic’s area.

Though it appeared that the game might end in a draw, Celtic’s dominance ultimately paid off in the closing stages as Furuhashi tapped home an inch-perfect Greg Taylor cross to give them the lead with just over 10 minutes remaining.

Celtic took control of the top of the table with this win, taking a commanding 12-point lead over their nearest rivals. But Rangers almost pulled one back in the second half when Alfredo Morelos met Taverner’s dangerous corner to beat McGregor.

Final score

Kyogo Furuhashi continued his remarkable streak in the Scottish League Cup final, scoring twice to give Celtic their second title of the season. The Japanese striker proved decisive again at Hampden Park and earned himself his third trophy under Ange Postecoglou.

The Hoops completely controlled the game, creating plenty of chances and winning their 21st league cup title under Australian manager. Now on course for a domestic treble after finishing top of the table by nine points ahead of nearest challengers Rangers.

Michael Beale suffered his first defeat as Gers boss since November, as his side had numerous chances to level the scores but failed to take advantage of them. Morelos pulled one back for Gers in the 64th minute but a valiant Light Blues fightback fell short as Glasgow giants claimed victory 2-1.

Kyogo Furuhashi Double Secures Celtic Victory

Celtic were in a commanding position at halftime despite missing Odsonne Edouard, with Liel Abada scoring and Kyogo Furuhashi having his goal disallowed for offside. And it was Furuhashi who sealed the victory when he scored twice in the second half: setting up David Turnbull with a first-time sidefooted effort and sending in another diving header past Jan Hanus.

Postecoglou’s men have now won 11 league matches in a row, moving them nine points clear of City rival Celtic in the table with four victories out of five. On New Year’s Day against Dundee United, Postecoglou hopes to make it 12 victories in a row for his side.

Ange Postecoglou’s Line-Up Benefits From Furuhashi Signing

Furuhashi, who was leading the J-League with 14 goals this season, joined Ange Postecoglou’s squad at a critical juncture and has already scored twice in his first Celtic start. The former Vissell Kobe man will be an invaluable addition to their squad and his arrival could pave the way for an exciting season ahead for him.

He must continue to put in the effort to secure his spot at Celtic, but his past performances have already been impressive.

Rarely does a player with such an expansive performance base make an impact on the bigger picture, and the 26-year-old’s recent success at Celtic Park serves as proof that players can flourish in Parkhead.

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