Gedion Zelalem was subbed into one of, if not the most, intense rivalries in the entire sporting world and played a big part on Sunday. It was Rangers vs. Celtic, the Old Firm derby, in the semifinals of the Scottish Cup. With time winding down in regulation, the U.S. youth international stepped on the field in the 87th minute.
The high stakes match headed to extra time knotted at 1. After both sides scored in the extra period it would be decided in penalties.
Tied up 3-3 on penalties, Zelalem stepped up with all the pressure on his shoulders and converted his spot kick with confidence. He celebrated by 'shushing' the nearby Celtic fans. This kid has some moxie, this can't be denied.
Zelalem scores for Rangers in a shoot-out as they beat Celtic... pic.twitter.com/gcGXBNZ5u9
— TerryAFC (@TerryAFCx) April 17, 2016
Rangers would go on to win the shootout in the next round after Celtic missed. The second-division side prevail over their most bitter rivals and will compete in the Scottish Cup final where Zelalem will have a chance to win a trophy.
Rangers have clinched promotion and will be back with Celtic in the first-division next season, but it has to be so sweet to get the upper hand on them while being a division below.