The fierce rivalry between Rangers and Celtic took center stage once again on May 4, 2025, as the two clubs clashed in the latest installment of the Old Firm derby at Ibrox Stadium. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, a result that left both sides with plenty to ponder as the Scottish Premiership season nears its conclusion.
Rangers, who had been seeking a third consecutive victory over their historic rivals, struck first with Cyriel Dessers finding the net just before half-time, marking his 25th goal of the season. However, Celtic responded in the second half through Adam Idah, whose equalizer ensured that the spoils were shared.
The draw means that Rangers are still grappling with a troubling trend, having failed to win at Ibrox for seven straight fixtures—a record that has never been seen before. Meanwhile, Celtic maintains a comfortable 17-point lead over Rangers, solidifying their status as champions of the league.
From the outset, the match was charged with intensity. Just a minute in, Leon Balogun came close to giving Rangers an early lead, hitting the crossbar from a corner kick. Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers had emphasized the importance of starting strong, especially after his side had conceded three goals in their last three encounters with Rangers. Yet, the early warning signs were evident as Rangers pressed forward.
As the first half progressed, Celtic began to find their rhythm. Adam Idah had a chance to set up James Forrest but opted to shoot himself, resulting in a deflected effort that was expertly tipped over the bar by Rangers' goalkeeper, Viljami Sinisalo. The visitors continued to press, with Cameron Carter-Vickers also coming close when his header was tipped onto the bar by Liam Kelly.
Rangers, however, managed to break the deadlock just before the interval. After a series of chances, Dessers held off Celtic's Liam Scales and slotted the ball into the corner, sending the home fans into raptures. This goal was particularly significant as it highlighted Dessers' ability to rise to the occasion despite facing frequent criticism throughout the season.
But the second half brought a renewed sense of urgency for Celtic. Daizen Maeda's pace down the left flank created havoc in the Rangers' defense. The ball eventually found its way to Idah, who turned sharply and struck a deflected shot that found the back of the net. Initially ruled offside, the goal was confirmed after a VAR review, much to the relief of the Celtic supporters.
Both teams continued to create chances, with Rangers pushing for a winner. Nicolas Raskin had a header ruled out earlier in the match for offside, and he came close again with a powerful shot that was saved by Sinisalo. The match ebbed and flowed, with both sides trading blows in a frenetic encounter.
The result means that Rangers still have much to work on as they look to regroup ahead of the next season. Manager Barry Ferguson will be concerned about their inability to secure victories at home, while Celtic will be pleased to have left Ibrox with their unbeaten record intact.
The attendance at Ibrox Stadium was a healthy 49,883, a testament to the enduring appeal of this storied rivalry. With the title already decided in favor of Celtic, both teams had little to play for in terms of league standings, but the pride associated with the Old Firm derby always elevates the stakes.
Looking ahead, Rangers will need to address their defensive frailties, having conceded goals in five of their last six matches. The likes of Dujon Sterling and Ridvan Yilmaz are ruled out for the remainder of the season, and the team will need to dig deep to find solutions as they prepare for next season.
On the other side, Celtic will aim to maintain their momentum as they move into the closing stages of the season. With a potent attack averaging 3.1 goals per game and a defense that has shown resilience, they are well-positioned to continue their dominance in Scottish football.
As the season winds down, both teams will reflect on their journeys. For Celtic, it has been a campaign of triumph, while Rangers will look to rebuild and reclaim their spot at the top of the Scottish Premiership. The Old Firm derby once again proved to be a thrilling encounter, full of drama, passion, and the fierce rivalry that defines Scottish football.
