Recently crowned Scottish Premiership champions, Celtic, head to Ibrox to face their fierce rivals, Rangers, in the latest edition of the historic Old Firm derby. Celtic secured their 55th league title in late April, drawing level with Rangers for the most championships in Scottish top-flight history. With a significant 17-point lead over Rangers this season, a victory in this match would cap off an impressive campaign for Brendan Rodgers` side.
While Celtic`s Champions League journey ended in the playoff stage, they showed resilience against Bayern Munich, indicating their ambition to regain prominence in European football alongside their domestic dominance. Rangers, on the other hand, face a substantial task to close the gap on their rivals. Winning this high-stakes home derby would be a crucial step forward for them.
Match Information & Odds
- Date: Sunday, May 4
- Time: 7 a.m. ET
- Location: Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow, Scotland
- TV Broadcast: CBS Sports Network
- Live Stream: Paramount+
- Odds: Rangers +245; Draw +265; Celtic -106
Previous Encounter
In their last meeting at Celtic Park in March, Rangers secured a 2-0 victory. This result ended Celtic`s strong run of form. Rangers managed to level the scoreline after initially falling behind, ultimately finding an 88th-minute winner. The decisive goal originated from a long pass by goalkeeper Jack Butland to Hamza Igamane. Rangers will aim to replicate this success on their home turf.
Manager`s Perspective
Traditionally, league champions receive a guard of honor from their opponents in the subsequent match. However, given the intense rivalry of the Old Firm, Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers isn`t expecting a warm reception at Ibrox.
“The guard of honor thing, it`s not a rule… It`s not in the rules that you have to do it. And I think that when two clubs and the rivalry are so emotional, it`s always difficult for the team that comes up short,” Rodgers commented. He added that he is relaxed about the situation, viewing it as a fading tradition in football.
While Celtic`s full championship celebration might be delayed, the fact that Rangers are likely to deny them this traditional honor adds another layer of significance to the match for the home side.
Predicted Starting Lineups
Rangers:
- Liam Kelly
- Robin Propper
- Clinton Nsiala
- James Tavernier
- Bailey Rice
- Jefte
- Mohamed Diomande
- Cyriel Dessers
- Hamza Igmane
Celtic:
- Viljami Sinisalo
- Anthony Ralston
- Cameron Carter-Vickers
- Liam Scales
- Greg Taylor
- Callum McGregor
- Arne Engles
- Reo Hatate
- Nicolas Kuhn
- Daizen Maeda
- Adam Idah
Key Player Focus
Daizen Maeda, Celtic: The race for the Scottish Golden Boot is tight, with Maeda currently tied on 16 goals. As the season nears its end, this match presents a prime opportunity for the Celtic forward to take the lead, potentially ahead of his own teammates. Nicolas Kuhn (13 goals) and Adam Idah (10 goals) are also in contention, highlighting Celtic`s prolific attack this season. Given Celtic`s ability to score freely, it wouldn`t be surprising to see one of their attackers make a decisive move in the Golden Boot race.
Match Storyline
Can Rangers Defend Their Home Ground? Beyond potentially denying Celtic a guard of honor, Rangers must prevent their rivals from securing a victory at Ibrox. Historically, the home side has often won Old Firm matches. Rangers` win at Celtic Park in March was notable as the first away victory in the last five encounters. This fact will likely fuel Celtic`s motivation. With the league title secured, Celtic is now playing for pride, and defeating their historic rivals on their home turf represents the ultimate demonstration of dominance.
Match Prediction
Expect Celtic to establish an early lead and control the game. They will create numerous scoring opportunities, likely allowing Daizen Maeda to get on the scoresheet as he chases the Golden Boot. A victory for Celtic at Ibrox would leave Rangers with significant questions heading into the offseason, reinforcing the gap between the two clubs in the league table.
Predicted Score: Rangers 1, Celtic 3
