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Who will win Rangers vs Aberdeen? Our writers make their Viaplay Cup semi final predictions

It's the first silverware Michael Beale can add to Rangers trophy cabinet since taking the helm at Ibrox - but Aberdeen will look to put a stop to their hopes in the Viaplay Cup.

Jim Goodwin will look to claim his first piece of silverware as Pittodrie boss, and the Dons' first cup success since they won this competition back in 2014. The last Scottish Premiership meeting between the pair was full of drama after a last gaps Scott Arfield double at Pittodrie in December secured a crucial three points for the visitors.

Rangers come into the game in form having enjoyed an unbeaten run since Beale made the move north from Queens Park Rangers and will have their eyes set on the final. In contrast Goodwin's men have endured a rocky period following the winter break but history is on Aberdeen's side as they haven't lost in any cup competition to Rangers since 2004.

But who will reach the showpiece final? Record Sport writers give their thoughts.

Keith Jackson

Rangers are building momentum under Michael Beale and, perhaps even more importantly, are rediscovering a winning mentality. The new manager can’t afford a stumble at this point. And with Fashion Sakala’s pace to burn on a wide open pitch, Rangers could unleash all kinds of chaos on Aberdeen’s backline. There looks like only one winner here.

Rangers 2 Aberdeen 0

Scott Burns

This semi-final looks like it could have goals in it. Aberdeen caused Rangers concern at Pittodrie last time out and I reckon this one can be a similar thriller. Rangers might edge it and Alfredo Morelos could well have his say.

Rangers 3 Aberdeen 2

Andy Newport

It’s so far so good for Gers under Michael Beale and there are signs confidence is returning to the Ibrox ranks after five wins and a draw since their new boss took over. The Dons may have ended their winless run against St Johnstone last week but belief remains fragile after that devastating late loss to the Light Blues at Pittodrie.

Rangers 2 Aberdeen 1

David McCarthy

This could be a cracker if Aberdeen turn up to make a game of it, as they did at Pittodrie recently before crumbling in injury time. Rangers scored three that night and with their forwards firing, could do the same again. They should have too much quality for the Dons.

Rangers 3 Aberdeen 1

Fraser Wilson

There’s been plenty of League Cup classics at Hampden between these two and I sense another. Aberdeen skipper Anthony Stewart has lit a fuse where one wasn’t needed with his claim that Antonio Colak is a better striker than Alfredo Morelos. But on current form, I actually agree.

If - and it’s a big if - the Dons can close the gaps at the back then they’ve got the energy to stop Gers in midfield and the firepower with an on-form Duk leading the charge to do the damage and land a big victory Jim Goodwin so badly needs.

Rangers 1 Aberdeen 2 (AET)

Michael Gannon

Aberdeen halted the slide recently and they should take confidence from the way they played for 93 minutes against Rangers last time. But the Dons might still be haunted by that late collapse and Gers have got their act together in the last few weeks. It could be a thriller.

Rangers 2 Aberdeen 1

Craig Swan

Rangers managed to defeat Aberdeen at Pittodrie recently when trailing in stoppage-time. This time, they’ll get on the front foot from the outset and take advantage of the Reds’ defensive weaknesses.

Rangers 2 Aberdeen 0

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