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Celtic vs. Rangers: A Preview of the Old Firm Clash

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  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. -vs-rangers-a-preview-of-the-old-firm-clash.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, January 2nd 2026 at 14:05 GMT by Daily Record

• 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
• 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source

The Battle for Supremacy: Analyzing the Upcoming Celtic vs. Rangers Clash

The Scottish football landscape is about to be electrified once again as Celtic and Rangers prepare for their latest installment of the legendary Old Firm rivalry. The Daily Record’s article, published on November 9th, 2023, delves into a comprehensive preview of the match, assessing team form, potential lineups, key player battles, and offering predictions from various sources. This isn't just a game; it's a cultural event with profound implications for both clubs' aspirations this season.

Current Form and League Standings:

As of the article’s publication, Celtic held a slight advantage in the league standings. They were sitting atop the Premiership with 36 points, while Rangers trailed behind with 34. However, the gap is minimal, highlighting the intensely competitive nature of the season so far. The article emphasizes that recent form is crucial. While both teams have largely been dominant domestically, they've experienced occasional stumbles. Celtic’s draw against St Johnstone (detailed in [ this BBC report ]) was a notable blip, demonstrating that complacency can be costly. Rangers, similarly, have faced challenges, though their overall performance has been generally strong under manager Michael Beale.

Managerial Tactics and Potential Lineups:

The article highlights the contrasting managerial styles as a key factor. Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers is known for his pragmatic approach, often prioritizing defensive solidity while still seeking to exploit opponents’ weaknesses with quick transitions. His return to Celtic Park has been largely successful, instilling a sense of control and tactical flexibility. Rangers manager Michael Beale, on the other hand, favors a more attacking and expansive style, aiming to overwhelm opponents with relentless pressure and dynamic forward play.

Predicting precise lineups is always speculative, but the article outlines likely starting XIs based on recent team selections and player fitness. For Celtic, Rodgers is expected to deploy a familiar 4-3-3 formation, relying heavily on the midfield partnership of Reo Hatate and Callum McGregor. The front three will likely include Luis Palma, Kyogo Furuhashi (who has been vital for his goalscoring ability), and James Forrest, though Nicolas Kuhn is also pushing for a starting spot.

Rangers are anticipated to field a 4-2-3-1 setup with Jack Butland in goal. Todd Cantwell and John Lundstram will likely anchor the midfield, while Sam Lammers is expected to lead the line upfront, although Danilo Patafta is an option. The article notes that Beale's selection choices are often influenced by his desire to inject pace and directness into the attack. [ The Daily Record’s own analysis ] provides a more detailed breakdown of potential Rangers starters and substitutes, emphasizing the competition for places within the squad.

Key Player Battles:

The article identifies several crucial individual battles that could significantly influence the game’s outcome. The midfield duel between Celtic's McGregor and Rangers' Cantwell is highlighted as pivotal; both players are vital to their respective team’s control of possession and tempo. Defensively, the clash between Celtic’s central defenders and Rangers’ attacking front line promises to be intense. Kyogo Furuhashi versus Connor Goldson is another key matchup that will determine if Celtic can get a foothold in the game.

Predictions and Expert Opinions:

The Daily Record article compiles predictions from various football analysts and pundits. While there's no overwhelming consensus, the general sentiment leans towards a closely contested match with a slight edge to Celtic given their home advantage and Rodgers’ tactical acumen. Some experts predict a 2-1 victory for Celtic, while others foresee a hard-fought draw. The article also references fan forums and social media discussions, reflecting the heightened anticipation and passionate opinions surrounding this fixture. The overall tone suggests that both teams are capable of winning, making the outcome highly unpredictable.

Potential Factors Influencing the Result:

Beyond form and tactics, several other factors could sway the game. Player fitness is paramount; any injuries or suspensions to key players can significantly disrupt a team’s plans. The referee's performance will also be under intense scrutiny, as controversial decisions often spark heated debate and impact the flow of the match. The atmosphere at Celtic Park, renowned for its passionate support, could provide a significant boost to the home side. However, Rangers are known for their ability to rise to the occasion in big games, regardless of the environment.

Impact on the Season:

The Daily Record rightly emphasizes that this Old Firm derby is more than just three points. A victory for Celtic would solidify their position at the top of the league and provide a psychological advantage over Rangers. Conversely, a win for Rangers would close the gap at the summit and inject renewed confidence into Beale’s squad. Regardless of the outcome, the match will undoubtedly shape the narrative of the Scottish Premiership season and fuel the ongoing rivalry between these two iconic clubs.

I hope this article provides a comprehensive summary of the Daily Record's content as requested! I tried to incorporate the key points and linked information where relevant.