Rodgers proud of Celtic team after Cup victory

Celtic beat Rangers on penalties to lift the Scottish League Cup, having to come from behind after conceding in the first half.

Brendan Rodgers was delighted with the “big heart” Celtic showed to come from behind and beat Rangers on penalties in the Scottish League Cup final.

The game finished 3-3 after 120 minutes, with five of the goals coming in the second half of normal time.

Kasper Schmeichel then denied Ridvan Yilmaz from 12 yards, setting up Daizen Maeda to score the winning spot-kick and secure Celtic a 22nd title in the competition, and their 199th trophy overall. 

Rangers had taken a 1-0 lead into the break before Celtic scored twice in the first 15 minutes of the second half to flip the script, and Rodgers lauded his players’ attitude during their fight back.

Great game to be involved in. It’s what you expect in a final,” Rodgers said. “You never get it all your own way.

There was no doubt Rangers played well, having some good spells. However, Celtic had their moments in the game as well, but ultimately, it’s about coming out on top, and Rodgers’s men were able to do that. 

“It’s just all about coming out on the other side. The guys showed big heart to come back from being behind in the game.

With the game heading into penalties, many would have thought Celtic might lack the composure needed to tuck spot kicks away. 

However, the five players stood up and perfectly delivered brilliant penalties to secure the trophy.

Celtic skipper McGregor, who added another winner’s medal to his growing collection, insists there is no better way to win a final.

Speaking after the game, McGregor revealed how  the brilliance of his teammates, adding that there is probably no better way to win the trophy than that, 

“it was such a big pressure situation, and the players stepped up and delivered.

Celtic continue their league journey as they travel to face Dundee United on Sunday, December 22.