# Celtic dominate Round 2 Focus Match: Celtic Beat Rangers 2-1, Temporarily Topping the Standings

In a thrilling encounter that captivated football fans across Scotland and beyond, Celtic Football Club secured a much-needed victory over their arch-rivals, Rangers FC. The match took place on Saturday night in Glasgow's Etihad Stadium, marking a significant milestone for the Scottish champions.

The opening half saw Celtic dominating the midfield, with midfielder Moussa Dembele playing a pivotal role. His technical ability and vision helped to create numerous opportunities for his teammates. In the 44th minute, Dembele delivered a beautiful through ball that found substitute striker Callum McGregor, who converted it into a stunning goal. The score was now 1-0 in favor of Celtic.

However, Rangers refused to go down without a fight. They responded to the deficit with some impressive counterattacks. In the 59th minute, winger Scott Brown capitalized on a loose ball to equalize the scores. It was a moment of panic for Celtic, but they did not falter.

The second half was even more intense as both teams battled for control. Celtic continued to dominate the possession, creating numerous chances, while Rangers tried to keep them at bay. However, Celtic ultimately prevailed when goalkeeper Ryan Christie made a crucial save from a Rangers shot in the 87th minute.

With this win, Celtic moved up to second position in the Scottish Premiership table, only one point behind leaders Aberdeen. This result is particularly significant considering the recent struggles Celtic have faced, including a disappointing loss against Rangers in the previous season's final.

The performance of Moussa Dembele was particularly noteworthy. The Frenchman demonstrated his exceptional skills once again, showcasing why he is considered one of the best players in the world. His ability to play out of defense and make crucial decisions has been instrumental in Celtic's success.

While Rangers will undoubtedly be disappointed with their loss, they still have a strong team and a chance to bounce back. The upcoming matches will be crucial in determining their playoff fate, and fans can expect another high-stakes battle between these two powerhouse clubs.

Overall, this match was a testament to the strength and resilience of Celtic, who continue to dominate the Scottish Premier League. With each victory, Celtic moves closer to achieving their long-term goals and cementing their status as one of the greatest teams in European football history.