The stage is set for the highly-anticipated Scottish Cup semi-final between Rangers and Celtic, with Willie Collum appointed as the referee for the match at Hampden.

Collum appointed as referee for Old Firm derby

Willie Collum has been named as the man in the middle for the Scottish Cup semi-final between Rangers and Celtic. It will be the first time Collum has taken charge of the Old Firm derby in over a year, with his last game being the penultimate Scottish Premiership encounter of last season at Ibrox. Celtic won that game 2-1 as they came from behind to secure the victory, thanks to goals from Tom Rogic and Cameron Carter-Vickers. Collum will be assisted by Daniel McFarlane and Dougie Potter, with Don Robertson as the fourth official. Steven McLean will be in the VAR room for the match.

Celtic look to continue treble chase

Celtic are still chasing a treble this season and will be hoping to secure their place in the final of the Scottish Cup with a victory over their rivals. The Hoops have already secured the Scottish Premiership title and are also in the final of the Scottish League Cup. Manager Ange Postecoglou will be hoping his team can build on their recent form, which has seen them win their last four league matches.

Rangers aiming to defend Scottish Cup title

Rangers are the holders of the Scottish Cup and will be aiming to defend their title against their fierce rivals. The Gers have had a mixed season, with their title challenge fading away in recent weeks. However, Steven Gerrard’s side will be determined to end their season on a high by winning the Scottish Cup for the second year in a row. The manager will be hoping that star striker Alfredo Morelos can continue his impressive form, having scored four goals in his last three appearances.

Other semi-final sees Inverness Caley Thistle take on Falkirk

In the other semi-final of the Scottish Cup, Inverness Caley Thistle will face Falkirk at Hampden. Nick Walsh will be the referee for that match, with Calum Spence and Jonathan Bell as the assistants and David Dickinson as the fourth official. Alan Muir will be in the VAR room for that game. The winner of that tie will face either Rangers or Celtic in the final of the Scottish Cup. 1.

Frequently Asked Question

• Who is Willie Collum and what is his background as a referee?

  Willie Collum is a Scottish football referee who has been officiating since 1988. He has refereed several high-profile matches, including UEFA Champions League and Europa League games. He has been a FIFA referee since 2006 and has represented Scotland at the UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup. Collum has been criticized for his performances in some matches, but has also received praise for his fair and consistent officiating.

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• What is the history behind the Rangers and Celtic football clubs and their rivalry?

  Rangers and Celtic are two of the most successful and popular football clubs in Scotland. They are also known for their fierce rivalry, which has its roots in religious and political differences between their supporters. Rangers were founded in 1872 and have won 54 league titles, while Celtic were founded in 1888 and have won 51 league titles. The two clubs have a long and often contentious history, with numerous incidents of violence and sectarianism between their supporters.

• What is the format of the Scottish Cup and how important is this match for both teams?

  The Scottish Cup is a knockout football tournament that involves teams from all levels of Scottish football. It is one of the oldest football competitions in the world, having been first played in 1873. The competition is considered one of the most prestigious in Scottish football, with the winner being crowned Scottish Cup champions. The semi-finals are particularly important as they offer a chance for the teams to progress to the final and win the trophy. For Rangers and Celtic, two of the biggest and most successful teams in Scottish football, this match is of huge importance and will be fiercely contested.

• Where is Hampden Stadium located and what is its significance in Scottish football?

  Hampden Park is a football stadium located in the Mount Florida area of Glasgow, Scotland. It has a capacity of over 51,000 and is the home of the Scottish national football team. The stadium has hosted many important matches, including the 1960 European Cup Final and the 2002 UEFA Cup Final. It is also the traditional venue for the Scottish Cup Final and has hosted the event almost every year since 1903. Hampden Park is considered one of the most iconic stadiums in Scottish football and is a significant part of the country’s sporting heritage.

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