The league title may already be wrapped up, and Rangers’ season officially deemed a failure, but you wouldn’t know it by the mood around Ibrox this week. The atmosphere, while reflective, is surprisingly upbeat — and it’s got everything to do with momentum, hope, and one last Old Firm to play.
Let’s be honest — this season’s shortcomings were clear from early doors. While Celtic looked relentless, Rangers struggled for consistency and rarely looked like a team destined to lift a trophy. Points dropped to lesser opposition, not head-to-head results, have ultimately cost us.
But here’s the kicker: we’ve beaten Celtic twice in a row now — home and away — and today we could make it three. That’s no small feat, especially when you consider how dominant Celtic have been in the league overall. Igamane’s winner last time out was a moment of magic and a reminder of the talent that does exist within this squad. If we manage to pull off another win, it’ll be the first time in years that we’ve completed a hat-trick of league wins over them in a single season — while still finishing miles behind. A strange season indeed.
So why are so many fans still smiling? Two reasons:
- Recent form against Celtic — Two wins against the old enemy lift any mood. And a real chance today to make it three. While our form elsewhere has been terrible, those games were not going to change anything this season.
- The pending takeover — Big changes are coming. A new regime, new leadership, and very likely a new manager to be announced in the days after this match. There’s hope again — and that alone is something to cling to.
Rangers Predicted Team v Celtic and the Shape
Barry Ferguson isn’t expected to shake things up too much, with Leon Balogun available again after a cheekbone operation. We’re likely to stick with three at the back, a setup that can work — if we get the basics right.
That means Rangers Tactics Must Include:
- Good pace of play, with forward momentum and bravery on the ball.
- Full-backs getting forward to support the attack.
- Pressing triggers being sharp and co-ordinated.
- Centre-backs stepping into midfield when needed to block transitions.
Slow build-up play and a lazy press? Forget it — we’ll be punished. This Celtic side doesn’t need much encouragement to find the net.
In midfield, winning the duels and retaining the ball are absolutely key. We’ll be looking for big performances from Nicolas Raskin and Mohammed Diomande, while young Bailey Rice is once again trusted in a high-pressure fixture. A bold call — but he’s shown maturity well beyond his years this season.
Rangers Predicted Starting 11
Goalkeeper:
Liam Kelly
Defence:
James Tavernier (C)
John Souttar
Leon Balogun
Clinton Nsiala
Jefte
Midfield:
Nicolas Raskin
Bailey Rice
Mohammed Diomande
Attack:
Vaclav Cerny
Hamza Igamane
Final Word
We might not be taking home silverware, but three Old Firm wins in a single league season? That would be a serious psychological blow to our rivals and a proper statement ahead of the summer rebuild.
The title is gone, but the pride isn’t. One last push, Rangers.
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