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Kevin Nisbet’s lack of cool proved so costly for Aberdeen at Hampden… and underlines why he’s not a man for the big occasion

In the build-up to this Premier Sports Cup semi-final, Aberdeen captain Kevin Nisbet spoke about the players needing to step up and deliver.

By CALUM CROWE · Daily Mail

Published: Saturday, 31 October 2026 at 10:30 PM

Key Things to Know

Calum Crowe argues Kevin Nisbet's missed chance against Rangers shows he is not cut out for big occasions.
Rangers defeated Aberdeen 1-0 in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final thanks to Ryan Naderi's late winner.
Nisbet hesitated on a 76th-minute chance from a Stuart Armstrong pass, allowing Olwethu Makhanya to block his effort.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Calum Crowe criticizes Kevin Nisbet after the Aberdeen captain squandered a crucial 76th-minute opportunity during the Premier Sports Cup semi-final against Rangers at Hampden. Crowe argues that Nisbet's costly hesitation before having his shot blocked proves he struggles to deliver in decisive moments, despite scoring 13 goals this season.

Rangers capitalized on the miss seven minutes later, with Ryan Naderi scoring to secure a 1-0 victory and advance to the final. The defeat mounts severe pressure on Aberdeen manager Stephen Robinson ahead of their upcoming match against Hibs at Pittodrie.

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