Bobby Madden gets out rule book as ‘massive’ Rangers controversy vs Celtic rumbles on

Celtic fans remain furious Emmanuel Fernandez was not sent off for Rangers in Sunday's clash. The defender, already on a yellow card for a challenge on Camilo D

Published: Monday, 21 September 2026 at 4:10 PM
Bobby Madden gets out rule book as ‘massive’ Rangers controversy vs Celtic rumbles on
Key Things to Know
  • Rangers defeated Celtic 1-0 at Celtic Park thanks to a first-half goal from Ryan Naderi.
  • Celtic fans and players were furious that Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez was not sent off for a second yellow card.
  • Former referee Bobby Madden stated that Fernandez's challenge stopped a promising attack and warranted a yellow card.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Former Scottish Premiership referee Bobby Madden has analyzed a controversial decision from Sunday's Old Firm derby, where Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez avoided a second yellow card. Celtic supporters and players believed Fernandez should have been sent off for a challenge on Benjamin Nygren, having already been booked for a foul on Camilo Duran. Referee John Beaton did not award a free-kick for the incident, and Rangers went on to win the match 1-0 at Celtic Park.

Madden explained that the challenge stopped a promising attack, which under the laws of the game constitutes unsporting behavior and warrants a yellow card. He noted that VAR is unable to intervene in second yellow card decisions. The victory for Rangers was secured via a first-half goal from Ryan Naderi, despite the ongoing debate surrounding Fernandez's reprieve.

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