The Scottish FA has admitted a critical officiating error during Rangers’ 1-0 defeat to Celtic in the Scottish Cup final, acknowledging that Rangers were wrongly denied a penalty. As a result, the VAR team responsible for the decision has been stood down pending further review.
The controversial incident occurred in the second half when Rangers forward Cyriel Dessers appeared to be fouled inside the box. Despite clear contact, referee Nick Walsh waved play on, and VAR officials opted not to intervene. Celtic went on to secure a narrow victory, lifting the trophy and sparking outrage among Rangers supporters and officials.
In a statement, the Scottish FA conceded the VAR team’s failure to recommend an on-field review was an error, highlighting the importance of consistency and accuracy in such high-stakes matches.
“The decision not to award Rangers a penalty was incorrect,” the statement read. “We strive for the highest standards in officiating, and on this occasion, we fell short. The VAR team involved will not be appointed for upcoming matches as part of an internal review process.”
Rangers manager Philippe Clement voiced his frustration post-match, describing the decision as “inexcusable” and lamenting its impact on the game’s outcome. “It’s difficult to accept when such moments decide finals,” Clement said.
The incident has reignited debates over VAR’s implementation in Scottish football, with calls for greater transparency and accountability in its operation. Fans across the country remain divided, some questioning whether the technology improves decision-making or merely amplifies errors.
As the Scottish FA investigates further, this high-profile mistake could prompt changes to the use of VAR in future competitions. For now, Rangers are left to wonder what might have been.
