Ex-Fifa refs assess whether Rangers star Emmanuel Fernandez could have seen red BEFORE escaping second yellow vs Celtic

THERE'S been plenty of debate surrounding the decision not to send-off Rangers star Emmanuel Fernandez at Celtic Park yesterday. But could the centre-back have even seen red BEFORE the incident that has people talking? A first-half strike from Ryan Naderi…

By Jonathon Moar · The Scottish Sun

Published: Monday, 21 September 2026 at 7:00 AM

Key Things to Know

Rangers secured a 1-0 victory over Celtic at Celtic Park thanks to a goal from Ryan Naderi.
Emmanuel Fernandez was booked after four minutes for a foul on Celtic striker Camilo Duran.
Fernandez escaped a second yellow card in the 16th minute after a controversial challenge on Benjamin Nygren.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez was at the center of refereeing controversy during his side's 1-0 victory over Celtic at Celtic Park. The Nigeria international received an early yellow card for a foul on Camilo Duran and later escaped a second booking after a challenge on Benjamin Nygren. Pundits and fans debated whether Fernandez should have been sent off during the match.

The initial four-minute incident led to a touchline altercation where Rangers manager Derek McInnes and Celtic coach Mark Fotheringham were both cautioned by referee John Beaton. VAR reviewed the early foul on Duran for a potential red card for denying an obvious goalscoring opportunity but ultimately upheld the yellow card decision.

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