Gather around, my fellow felines as the footballing world welcomes the new year and have all eyes in Scotland turn to Ibrox Stadium, where Glasgow Rangers and Celtic are set to lock horns in the first Old Firm Derby of 2025 - a battle for Glasgow bragging rights. This fierce rivalry transcends sport, embodying the cultural, social, and religious divides that have shaped Glasgow for over a century. The stakes are always monumental, and with league standings and pride on the line, tomorrow’s clash promises to be no different
The Old Firm Derby isn’t just a football match—it’s a spectacle rooted in deep-seated rivalry. From Celtic’s foundation in 1887 as a club for Glasgow’s Irish Catholic community to Rangers’ ties to the city’s Protestant working class, every meeting between these two giants carries echoes of history, identity, and passion. With over 400 matches played since their first meeting in 1888, the fixture has been defined by drama, controversy, and unforgettable moments.
Rangers are grappling with a series of setbacks that could impact their performance. Goalkeeper Butland, a pivotal figure between the posts, has been ruled out following an internal leg bleed. His absence is a substantial blow to the team's defensive stability.In addition, captain Tavernier is sidelined with an injury sustained during the recent draw against Motherwell and will be out for several weeks. As Rangers’ defense that has been leaky of late, conceding unnecessary goals in critical moments even with Tavernier on the pitch, thus need to shore up their backline if they’re to contain Celtic’s attacking play. The home crowd at Ibrox could be a decisive factor, spurring the Light Blues on in what is sure to be an emotionally charged atmosphere.
Celtic, under Brendan Rodgers, have been in scintillating form, winning six of their last eight matches and sitting atop the Scottish Premiership. Kyogo Furuhashi continues to be their talisman up front, his pace and movement causing nightmares for defenders. And only Henrik Larson and Kenny Miller have in history scored more Old Firm-derby goals. Meanwhile, O’Riley and Hatate have been orchestrating midfield with flair and precision, ensuring Celtic’s dominance in possession.
Defensively, the Hoops have been more solid than their rivals, with Carter-Vickers and Scales forming a dependable partnership at the back. However, a trip to Ibrox is always a daunting challenge, and Celtic will need to be at their very best to silence the hostile crowd and secure the bragging rights.
While Celtic enter the match as favorites due to their recent form and league position, the derby’s unpredictable nature levels the playing field. Rangers’ home advantage and the passion of their fans will push them to their limits, but Celtic’s firepower and composure may just edge them ahead. Expect fireworks, crunching tackles, and an atmosphere that only the Old Firm can deliver. Whether it’s a Bernardo masterclass or a Balogun thunderbolt, this clash is set to be a thriller. Grab your scarves, settle in, and let the battle for Glasgow unfold. Final prediction; Rangers 1, Celtic 2.
You’re welcome!
RANGERS predicted line-up: Kelly, Sterling, Balogun, King, Yilmaz, Diomande, Raskin; Cerny, Bajrami, Hagi, Igamane
CELTIC predicted line-up: Schmeichel, Johnston, Carter-Vickers, Trusty, Taylor, Bernardo, McGregor, Hatate; Kuhn, Kyogo, Maeda
