Rangers’ standout Fabio Silva was seen engaging in tactical “mind games” before Matt O’Riley’s penalty miss for Celtic. The Scottish Premiership leaders were already ahead 2-1 when Danish player Silva drew a foul in the box from Mohamed Diomande. Referee Willie Collum initially awarded a penalty but was then called to review the incident on the pitch-side monitor by VAR, causing a delay in play.
During the break, on-loan Wolves player Silva was captured on camera approaching O’Riley and exchanging words. Covered his mouth, Silva had a conversation with O’Riley, who initially seemed amused before ultimately walking away from the Rangers forward. Despite the mind games, Collum stuck with his decision to award the penalty.
O’Riley’s spot-kick was saved by Butland, but Celtic still secured the win against 10-man Rangers. Commentator Chris Sutton noted the strategic move during the VAR check, pointing out the impact it had on O’Riley’s penalty attempt.
After the match, O’Riley downplayed the effect of the mind games on his miss, stating, “I thought it was quite strange. There are no excuses when you miss a penalty. But of course, it’s quite a long wait.” Butland also seemed to have a discussion with O’Riley before the penalty was taken.
