In a thrilling display of resilience and determination, Celtic Women have punched their ticket to the Scottish Women's Cup final for the first time in three years, overcoming a fierce Glasgow City side in an extra-time classic. The victory marks a significant milestone for the Hoops, who hadn't tasted success against their rivals since August 2024, making this triumph all the sweeter.
The match started with Celtic seizing control early, as Saoirse Noonan rose highest to power home a header from Amy Gallacher's pinpoint corner in the first half. It seemed that solitary goal might be enough to secure the win, but Glasgow City—still riding high from their SWPL Cup triumph earlier this season and chasing a domestic treble—had other plans. With just seven minutes left in regulation, Linda Motlhalo unleashed a powerful strike that leveled the score and sent the game into extra time.
Rather than wilt under the pressure, Celtic emerged from the break with renewed vigor. Gallacher, who had already proven her set-piece prowess, turned scorer just two minutes into extra time with a clinical finish that silenced the City faithful and restored Celtic's lead. The momentum was firmly with the Hoops, and they capitalized again deep into first-half stoppage time when Shannon McGregor, making her Hampden debut, displayed composure beyond her years. The Scotland international latched onto a loose ball at the back post, took a deft touch, and blasted a brilliant third goal into the roof of the net.
Glasgow City, however, refused to go quietly. Substitute Emily Grey sparked a tense finale by stabbing home from a goalmouth scramble in the final minute of extra time, cutting the deficit to one and setting up a nerve-wracking conclusion. But Celtic's defense held firm, and the final whistle sparked jubilant scenes as the Hoops secured their place in the showpiece event.
For Glasgow City, attention now turns to the SWPL title race, where they trail leaders Hearts by four points. For Celtic, the dream of lifting the Scottish Cup for the first time since their back-to-back wins in 2022 and 2023 is very much alive. They'll return to Hampden on Sunday, 31 May for the final, where they'll face either Rangers or Montrose—a match that promises to be a fitting climax to a captivating cup run. As the players celebrated, it was clear that this victory was more than just a result; it was a statement of intent from a team determined to reclaim their place at the top of Scottish women's football.