Celtic will be ‘over the moon’ at ‘huge’ Rangers development – pundit
Noel Whelan has insisted Celtic will be “over the moon” Rangers were taken to extra time by Braga ahead of Sunday’s Scottish Cup semi-final.
However, the former Aberdeen hitman, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, stated the Light Blues will be full of confidence after sealing victory over the Portuguese side.
David Carmo’s 83rd-minute goal levelled the scores on aggregate and meant an extra 30 minutes of action for the Gers.
However, Kemar Roofe’s strike sealed victory to send Rangers into the final four of the Europa League.
With the two Glasgow rivals set to face off in another semi-final on Sunday, Whelan insisted Celtic will be delighted the Light Blues were forced to play 120 minutes on Thursday night.
“Celtic will have been rubbing their hands when it went to extra-time,” Whelan told Football Insider’s Russell Edge.
“The green side of Glasgow will be absolutely loving the fact that it went to extra time.
“However, the fact that they got the win underneath their belt, winning breeds winning. It doesn’t matter how many minutes it takes, it’s that great feeling you have.
“It’s that satisfactory feeling and that belief that strides through a team when you’re winning games. Especially on a European night as well.
“They’re on a good run right now. They’ll be feeling confident and looking to put three wins on the bounce together.
“It’s a huge game. When it comes to this game, especially at Hampden Park and a big pitch, Celtic will be over the moon that it went into extra time.”
Celtic won the last Glasgow derby 2-1 at Ibrox at the start of the month.
The Hoops head into Sunday’s game off the back of a 7-0 win over St Johnstone.
In other news, Ange Postecoglou Celtic quit claim missed after journalist’s Man City reveal.