The much-anticipated Old Firm derby is ready to kick off the new year, as Rangers host Celtic at Ibrox Stadium on January 2, 2025. This storied rivalry promises yet another chapter, and with Celtic holding a significant 14-point lead over Rangers at the top of the Scottish Premiership, the stakes are high.
Celtic, flying high under the management of Brendan Rodgers, have been on fire this season. They remain unbeaten so far, having convincingly defeated St. Johnstone 4-0 prior to this derby. Their attacking prowess has been undeniable, with Kyogo Furuhashi leading the charge alongside Nicolas-Gerrit Kuhn and Callum McGregor, all ranking among the top three scorers of the league. On defense, the duo of Cameron Carter-Vickers and Auston Trusty promises to be formidable, solidifying the back line against their rivals.
Rangers, on the other hand, find themselves under immense pressure. After dropping points with a draw against Motherwell just before the New Year, Philippe Clement’s side is desperate for redemption. The manager, who has yet to secure victory over Celtic, faces criticism as his team struggles to find consistency. Missing key figures like captain James Tavernier and goalkeeper Jack Butland due to injuries adds to the challenges for the home side.
Kick-off is set for 3 PM local time, and fans can watch the match live on CBS Sports Network and Paramount+. The odds reflect the competitive nature of this encounter, with Rangers at +250 to win, Celtic favored at -106, and the draw priced at +260.
Historically, this match-up has been intense, with recent encounters fueling the fire. Celtic edged their last meeting at the League Cup final, prevailing 4-3 on penalties after the match ended 3-3, demonstrating their ability to come through under pressure. This time, Celtic enters the match not only with confidence but with the ambition to extend their lead and exert their dominance over their arch-rivals.
The Rangers line-up shows several changes, reflecting Clement’s desire to shake things up. Newcomers Kelly, Ridvan, Propper, and Bajrami are expected to inject fresh energy alongside established players like Hagi and Cerny. Meanwhile, for Celtic, Schmeichel will protect the goal, backed by Johnston, Carter-Vickers, Scales, and Taylor, forming the backbone of their defensive strategy.
Rangers have not been shy on the attack either. Their last five matches have seen them score frequently, suggestive of their offensive potential to trouble Celtic’s defense. A win for Rangers would not only boost morale but also put them back on track to compete for the title, something they desperately need before the season progresses any farther.
Celtic fans are eagerly hoping for their team to continue the momentum they’ve built, retaining focus to attain another win and deal a severe blow to Rangers' title aspirations. The all-time record favors Celtic slightly, with 170 victories compared to Rangers’ 169 and 104 draws between these fierce opponents.
This derby not only spells rivalry but embodies a unique aspect of Scottish football culture. The electric atmosphere at Ibrox, known for its passionate supporters, sets the stage for what promises to be another thrilling encounter. Will Rangers manage to assert dominance on home soil, or will Celtic extend their lead and solidify their claim to the title? Fans will have their eyes glued to the pitch as tension builds leading up to the first whistle.
Both managers have made statements emphasizing the importance of this match. Clement, expressing the need for his side to be clinical and take chances, has no room for complacency. On the flip side, Rodgers urges his champions to maintain their current form and approach the game with aggression and focus. "Every game is a chance to assert dominance," he mentioned, highlighting the significance of each encounter against their rivals.
Victory for Celtic may not only assure their continued ascent but could push the Old Firm rivalry to new heights, with historical ramifications for both clubs. Rangers—armed with the resolve to change their narrative—enter this fixture intending to claw back the points gap and re-establish some authority over their fierce rivals.
Tonight, Scottish football fans are set for yet another unforgettable showdown steeped in tradition, drama, and relentless passion as Rangers and Celtic collide once more at Ibrox.