Rangers edge out stubborn Aberdeen

Rangers 1 - 0 Aberdeen 

Rangers reached the League Cup final after Ryan Naderi's late strike at Hampden finally broke Aberdeen's stubborn resistance.

Author | Max Lee

Stadium | Hampden Park

The victory extends the Ibrox side's unbeaten run to 11 matches, with either Hibernian or Hearts awaiting them in the final on 13 December as they look to claim their first silverware under manager Derek McInnes.

Despite plenty of positives in Aberdeen's performance, this represents a fourth defeat in five matches and a missed opportunity for manager Stephen Robinson to deliver a much-needed statement victory and add to his impressive cup record.

Aberdeen last won this trophy under McInnes in 2014. Their wait for another triumph continues, while Rangers are now within touching distance of making the most of their excellent recent form.

Analysis of what happened at the national stadium

The odds were firmly against the Pittodrie side, with many expecting a routine afternoon for Rangers. It proved anything but.

Despite being depleted defensively, Aberdeen looked well organised and resilient, although Ayoub Mouloua was perhaps fortunate to escape an early handball decision.

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Rangers did not register a shot on target until the 43rd minute, but came close on three occasions before half-time and piled on the pressure after the break, with Badredine Bouanani posing a constant threat.

The moment that won the game

Aberdeen continued to hold firm until the decisive moment arrived late on, when Naderi turned the ball home after excellent work from Kevin Kelsy and James Penrice.