Celtic will return to Hampden and defend their League Cup trophy after victory over Kilmarnock.
The rain and wind battered down all game in what proved to be tough conditions for both sides. Daizen Maeda grabbed the all important first goal after Kyle Lafferty's attempted clearance struck the attacker and into the back of the net in the first period. Giorgos Giakoumakis then made sure of a place in the final after tapping home from close-range in the 95th minute. Ange Postecoglou won this competition last season and is one game away from making it back-to-back successes and keeping hopes of a domestic Treble alive and kicking this season.
The Hoops will face one of Aberdeen and Rangers, who battle it out in the other semi-final tomorrow afternoon, but for now it's time for celebration with another final for the players, management and supporters to enjoy. Here's how we rated the Scottish champions in the last four triumph over Derek McInnes' men.
READ MORE: Tobi Oluwayemi makes Celtic loan transfer exit as familiar face helps seal Cork City move
Joe Hart - 7
Excellent save early on to deny Rory McKenzie early on and then a smart save from a Joe Wright header before a third big stop from Christian Doidge.
Josip Juranovic - 7
In for Alistair Johnston with talk over his future continuing to rumble on. Didn't make any difference on performance. Solid shift.
Cameron Carter-Vickers - 7
A few ventures forward. Real key man at the back. Dealt well with big Kilmarnock frontline.
Carl Starfelt - 6
Slack pass early on nearly punished in difficult conditions. Constantly stepping up from the back to start attacks. Grew into game.
Alexandro Bernabei - 6
Starting in place of injured Greg Taylor. Tough task with Daniel Armstrong.
Callum McGregor - 7
Skipper is often the anchor and keeps things ticking. Rarely misplaces a pass or has a bad game. Another Hampden final and chance of lifting silverware to come.
Reo Hatate - 6
27th appearance of the season with six goals and four assists to his name. Quieter evening. Goal ruled out for offside. Close on 55 mins. Subbed.
Aaron Mooy - 8
So calm and composed with the ball at his feet. Always willing to take in tight areas. Proving to be an excellent signing.
Jota - 7
Grabbed a goal against the same opposition last week. Always a danger and looking to create on the ball. Caused some problems. Subbed.
Daizen Maeda - 7
Grabbed the first goal in fortune circumstances but he won't care. Kyle Lafferty's attempted clearance hit the attacker and into the net. Goal ruled out for offside. Works hard at both ends of the pitch.
Kyogo Furuhashi - 6
A competition and ground that holds fond memories with two goals in the final last year including a stunning lob. Quieter evening by his standards this time around. No real chances to add to his tally. Subbed.
Subs
Liel Abada - 3
On late and was inches away from scoring to put the game out of sight.
Matt O'Riley - 3
Will be determined to get back in the starting team. A late run out at Hampden.
Giorgos Giakoumakis - 5
Speculation over his future is in overdrive with reports of a move to Urawa Red Diamonds agreed. Scored in 95th minute to secure win. A potential farewell strike?
James Forrest - 2
On for final 10 minutes for Daizen Maeda. Another potential League Cup heading his way.
David Turnbull - 2
On for his 100th Celtic appearance with a late cameo in added-time.
READ NEXT:
- Ange Postecoglou in Cho Gue sung Celtic transfer address as he makes 'barber's neighbour' quip
- Chris Sutton aims Rangers dig as Celtic hero issues North London derby 'lifetime ban' quip
- We ‘signed’ Cho Gue-sung for Celtic in January transfer and he became Rangers Old Firm derby hero