Celtic dominates the Scottish Premiership as they prepare to face rivals Rangers at Ibrox Stadium on January 2, 2025. This marks yet another installment of the fiercely contested Old Firm derby, where emotions run high and stakes even higher.
Celtic, under the leadership of manager Brendan Rodgers, holds a commanding 14-point lead over Rangers, having asserted their dominance throughout the season. Following their recent triumphs, including winning the League Cup final against Rangers, the current champions are determined to continue their unbeaten streak. The last encounter between the two teams ended 3-3, demonstrating the intensity and unpredictability of these matches.
Rangers enter this match under significant pressure after failing to secure a win against their arch-rivals since May 2023. Their form has been less than stellar, with only one victory from the last five matches, including two frustrating results—a loss to St Mirren and a draw with Motherwell. This puts manager Philippe Clement firmly under scrutiny as he seeks to turn around the team's fortunes.
Both teams approach this derby bearing a mixture of hope and trepidation. While Celtic is riding high—having achieved two recent crushing 4-0 victories against Motherwell and St. Johnstone—Rangers face mounting injury issues. Players such as captain James Tavernier and goalkeeper Jack Butland will be absent, adding to the woes of the host team.
This year's derby not only embodies the rivalry's history but also its current narratives. Rangers' struggle is palpable, and supporters are anxious for signs of improvement. Clement acknowledged, “We need to find solutions now” to turn the tide against Celtic, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. His side's confidence has taken hits from recent performances, and he will need to instill belief within his team before they face their league-leading opponents.
Conversely, Celtic remains unfazed by the pressure of their position. Manager Brendan Rodgers remarked, “We will always assume the pressure,” emphasizing their resolve to win every match. He has successfully planned the team's approach, inspiring confidence even as they navigate the challenges posed by playing away at Ibrox without their supporters.
The gunners of both squads exemplify the excitement surrounding this match. Rangers have struggled to find their footing recently, but players like Liam Kelly and Leon Balogun will be expected to step up. On the opposite end, Celtic's Kyogo Furuhashi remains one to watch, as he leads the attack alongside Nicolas-Gerrit Kühn, aiming to capitalize on Rangers' defensive vulnerabilities.
With just days left until the first kick-off, both teams are fully aware of the match's importance to their respective campaigns. For Rangers, this is about more than just league points; it’s about regaining pride against their rivals. For Celtic, it’s another opportunity to solidify their dominance at the top of the table.
And so, as the clock ticks down to 3 PM GMT on January 2, excitement fills the air, creating an electric atmosphere at Ibrox. The Old Firm derby promises to be another chapter in this storied rivalry, filled with passion, tension, and the unscripted drama emblematic of Scottish football.