Celtic into final after edging Aberdeen in epic tie

Celtic eventually prevailed on penalties after a six-goal Hampden classic as the holders progressed to their 60th Scottish Cup final and left Aberdeen heartbroken.

However, Hart made amends by saving Killian Phillips’ effort and Celtic will now face either Hearts or Rangers next month as they look to lift the oldest trophy in football for a record-extending 42nd time.

The incredible finale was befitting of an epic tie in which Aberdeen twice scored last-gasp levellers.

Angus MacDonald’s 119th-minute header appeared to have completed a remarkable redemption arc after the stand-in captain’s howler gifted Celtic’s equaliser to Nicolas Kuhn in the first half.

Aberdeen – led by interim manager Peter Leven – had taken a surprise lead after two minutes as Bojan Miovski capitalised on a sleeping defence before curling a scorcher around Joe Hart.

Celtic were much improved in the second half and substitute James Forrest thought his curled finish had booked their spot in the final in normal time, but Ester Sokler’s dramatic header in the 90th minute forced extra time.

Matt O’Riley’s composed rocket restored Celtic’s lead but there was plenty more drama to come before the astonishing tie was finally settled and Brendan Rodgers’ unbeaten Hampden record continued.

More to follow.