Rangers’ Classy Congratulations to Aberdeen Includes Cheeky Two-Word Dig at Celtic
In a thrilling climax to the Scottish football season, Aberdeen stunned the footballing world by clinching the Scottish Cup in a dramatic final against Celtic on May 24, 2025, at Hampden Park. The Dons ended a 35-year wait for the prestigious trophy, defeating the holders in a penalty shootout after a tense, low-quality but high-drama encounter. As the dust settled on Aberdeen’s historic victory, Rangers, their fierce rivals, issued a statement that blended sportsmanship with a playful jab, delighting fans and sparking conversation across Scottish football.
Rangers’ official statement congratulated Aberdeen on their triumph, acknowledging the Dons’ resilience and the significance of their achievement. “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Aberdeen FC for their Scottish Cup victory,” the statement read. “It’s a momentous day for the Dons, ending a long wait for silverware, and we commend their determination and spirit. Here’s to more thrilling battles in the future – and to keeping the ‘Treble Basher’ spirit alive!” The cheeky two-word phrase, “Treble Basher,” was a clear dig at Celtic, whose dreams of a domestic treble were shattered by Aberdeen’s upset.
The context of this playful jab is rooted in the intense rivalry between Rangers and Celtic, known as the Old Firm, which dominates Scottish football. Celtic, who had already secured the Scottish Premiership and League Cup, were favorites to complete the treble, a feat they’ve achieved six times since 2016. Aberdeen’s victory, however, halted Celtic’s march, with captain Callum McGregor and Alistair Johnston missing crucial penalties in the shootout. Former Rangers star Kris Boyd, now a pundit, coined the “Treble Basher” phrase on social media, gleefully trolling Celtic after the final. Rangers’ adoption of the term in their statement was a masterstroke of banter, resonating with their supporters and adding spice to the rivalry.
Aberdeen’s triumph was a testament to their resurgence under manager Jimmy Thelin. The Dons, who last won the Scottish Cup in 1990, had faced Celtic five times this season, losing four but drawing a competitive 2-2 at Celtic Park. Their semi-final heroics against Hearts, sealed by a late Oday Dabbagh goal, set the stage for their Hampden heroics. Goalkeeper Dimitar Mitov emerged as the hero, saving penalties to secure the trophy, sparking wild celebrations among the 20,000-strong Red Army who sold out their allocation.
Rangers’ gesture, while gracious, cleverly capitalized on the moment to needle Celtic, whose dominance has seen them win 21 of the last 26 domestic trophies. The “Treble Basher” quip underscores the yin-and-yang dynamic between the Old Firm, where any setback for one is a cause for celebration for the other. For Rangers, under interim manager Barry Ferguson, the season has been trophyless, but their 4-0 league win over Aberdeen earlier in May showed their potential. As Aberdeen basks in glory, Rangers’ statement ensures the rivalry remains as fiery as ever, setting the stage for more drama next season.
