The Old Firm Derby: Rangers vs. Celtic Match Analysis

On Sunday, Rangers and Celtic will clash in the first Old Firm derby of the 2025-26 Scottish Premiership season. This highly anticipated match takes place just days after both teams were eliminated from Champions League qualification – Rangers fell to Club Brugge with a significant 9-1 aggregate score, while Celtic surprisingly lost to Kairat Almaty. The Old Firm derby is consistently one of the most eagerly awaited fixtures on the calendar due to the deep-seated rivalry between Glasgow`s two major clubs. Under manager Russell Martin, Rangers have started the season with three draws in their opening matches, whereas Celtic, led by former Liverpool and Leicester coach Brendan Rodgers, have secured three impressive wins in their first three games.

How to Watch the Match and Betting Odds

Why is the Old Firm Derby So Anticipated?

This derby is undeniably one of the season`s most significant events, fueled by the long-standing and fierce rivalry between the fanbases of Celtic and Rangers. The history of this passionate confrontation began in 1888, and ever since, these two clubs have exerted unparalleled dominance over Scottish football, collectively amassing over 100 league titles. This rivalry extends far beyond the confines of the sport itself, deeply rooted in cultural, religious, and political differences. Rangers are traditionally associated with Protestants and unionists, while Celtic finds its support primarily within Catholic communities with strong Irish heritage. Both home venues, Ibrox for Rangers and Celtic Park for Celtic, are renowned across Europe for their incredibly noisy and passionate atmospheres, which reach a fever pitch during this crucial match. Furthermore, a testament to the intensity of this divide, only six players have ever played for both clubs since World War II, and remarkably, none have ever made a direct transfer from one team to the other.

Possible Lineups