Violent Clashes Erupt in Glasgow Ahead of Scottish League Cup Final

Glasgow, Scotland — Violent scenes broke out in Glasgow’s city centre on Sunday afternoon as fans of Celtic and Rangers clashed ahead of the Scottish League Cup final at Hampden Park. The match, which kicked off at 3:30 p.m., marked the latest installment of the Old Firm rivalry, but tensions flared long before the game began.

Footage shared on social media captured chaotic moments as rival supporters clashed with each other and police officers. One video showed a crowd of fans running down the street as flares were thrown, while police intervened to break up fights, some of which involved supporters wrestling on the ground. Officers wielded batons to disperse the groups, and several bystanders were seen taking cover in shops as the disorder unfolded.

The violence erupted near Argyle Street, where police were granted emergency stop-and-search powers after reports of missiles being thrown and windows being smashed on Howard Street. Groups of Rangers supporters, some wearing balaclavas and Santa hats, were filmed moving through the streets before engaging in altercations with Celtic fans, many of whom were also masked. Flares and other projectiles were thrown during the melee before police managed to intervene.

Image by NewUnion_org from Pixabay

Chief Superintendent Stevie Dolan of Police Scotland addressed the incidents, stating:
“We have dealt with a number of incidents in Glasgow city centre today involving individuals engaging in disorder and violence. Officers have had to act swiftly and robustly to ensure public safety and reduce disorder. The use of weapons or violence will not be tolerated, and officers will take action where necessary to ensure safety. It impacts other members of the public and the vast majority of football supporters who want to enjoy the cup final event safely.”

Dolan added that police would remain in the city to continue their operation and urged anyone with concerns to approach officers.

Sunday’s match carried significant stakes, with both teams vying for the first trophy of the season. Celtic, led by Brendan Rodgers, entered the game in strong form, having defeated Rangers 3-0 in their previous Old Firm clash in September and maintaining a nine-point lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership.

Despite the anticipation surrounding the game, the violent scenes served as a stark reminder of the historic rivalry’s darker side, as a minority of supporters overshadowed the occasion with dangerous and disruptive behavior.