Vaclav Cerny Sparks Outrage with Touchline Celebration in Thrilling Old Firm Derby
Rangers winger Vaclav Cerny has become the center of attention after cameras captured his exuberant, and some say controversial, celebration during the recent Old Firm derby against Celtic. Moments after Hamza Igamane scored the decisive late goal, securing a dramatic victory for Rangers, Cerny’s actions on the touchline ignited social media and fan discussions.
The match itself was a rollercoaster for Rangers and their manager, Barry Ferguson. Fresh off their Europa League quarter-final qualification against Fenerbahce – a victory celebrated by Rangers fans and secured after overcoming Jose Mourinho’s side – they entered Celtic Park with momentum. Rangers initially dominated, taking a commanding two-goal lead thanks to strikes from Nicolas Raskin and Mohamed Diamonde.
However, Celtic mounted a spirited comeback in the second half. Diazen Maeda pulled one goal back for the home side, shifting the game’s dynamic. The tension escalated as Reo Hatate, the Japanese international midfielder for Celtic, equalized in the 74th minute, expertly beating Rangers goalkeeper Jack Butland. With the match seemingly headed for a draw, Hamza Igamane, coming off the bench, delivered a crucial blow. His 14th goal of the season in the 88th minute secured a memorable 3-2 victory for Rangers in this iconic Glasgow derby, silencing the Celtic Park crowd.
Celebration Controversy: Cerny’s Water Bottle Incident
Immediately following Igamane’s dramatic winner, attention shifted to Vaclav Cerny. The Czech Republic international was seen on video squirting water from his bottle towards a section of Celtic supporters situated in the front rows near the touchline. This act, captured and quickly shared across social media platform X (formerly Twitter), provoked a swift and varied reaction from football fans.
Fan reactions online ranged from amusement to condemnation. Here’s a snapshot of social media comments:
- Amusement and Support: Some fans lauded Cerny’s actions as passionate and entertaining “s***housery,” viewing it as part of the intense rivalry. One fan exclaimed, “Top level s***housery…..should actively be encouraged in football,” while another humorously added, “Creased every time I see it. Could watch this on repeat all day.” Another supporter stated enthusiastically, “Whatever it costs to sign Cerny. We will pay double,” seemingly impressed by his passion.
- Criticism and Concern: Conversely, many criticized Cerny’s behavior as unprofessional and provocative. One comment highlighted potential repercussions, stating, “He’ll be lucky to finish their season now. Since when was this this appropriate from any professional?” Another succinctly described the incident as: “Vaclav Cerny sprayed Celtic fans with a water bottle after their goal.”
When questioned about the incident in his post-match interview, Rangers manager Barry Ferguson claimed to have missed it amidst the celebrations. “No, listen, I was just concentrating on celebrating and making sure we were getting back into our shape,” Ferguson told Sky Sports. “I didn’t see the incident if I’m honest.” Despite this, Ferguson was overwhelmingly positive about his team’s performance and victory.
Ferguson highlighted the significance of the win, being the first Rangers manager since the legendary Walter Smith in 1991 to win at Celtic Park in his first attempt. He praised his players’ character, stating, “It takes a certain type to be a very good Rangers player. My group of players are certainly starting to show that.” He further emphasized the importance of character within the team, especially in such high-stakes environments like the Old Firm derby. Ferguson concluded, “It’s a really good feeling coming to your fiercest rivals and deserving to win the game,” encouraging his players to “go and enjoy the next couple of days.”
Cerny’s celebration, whether seen as playful exuberance or unsportsmanlike conduct, has undoubtedly added another layer of spice to the intense Old Firm rivalry and sparked debate amongst football fans.
What are your thoughts on Vaclav Cerny’s touchline celebration? Was it harmless fun or disrespectful? Share your opinions in the comments below!