The Stage is Set for Glasgow’s Ultimate Derby
The Scottish football world holds its breath as Rangers and Celtic prepare to clash in this season’s final Old Firm derby at Ibrox this Sunday. With kickoff at 12pm GMT, this historic rivalry takes center stage once again, and Jeetwin brings you the most comprehensive tactical breakdown of what promises to be a fiery encounter.
Team News: Defensive Woes and Returning Stars
Rangers’ Backline Crisis
Steven Gerrard faces a defensive headache with Filip Helander ruled out for the season after his knee injury against St Johnstone. The Swedish center-back’s absence leaves a significant gap, compounded by the unavailability of Leon Balogun and long-term absentee Nikola Katic.
This situation thrusts January signing Jack Simpson into the spotlight for only his second Rangers start. The former Bournemouth defender will have a baptism of fire in his Old Firm debut. Midfielder Scott Arfield also joins the casualty list, ending his season prematurely with an ankle injury.
Celtic’s Injury Boost
Interim manager John Kennedy receives timely reinforcements as wingers James Forrest (back/hamstring) and Mikey Johnston return to full fitness. However, the Hoops still miss defender Christopher Jullien due to his long-term knee issue.
This match marks an emotional farewell for Celtic captain Scott Brown, who will play his final Old Firm before joining Aberdeen as player/assistant next season.
Tactical Preview: How Both Teams Might Approach the Game
Rangers’ Unbeaten Premiership Campaign
Gerrard’s side has been the dominant force in Scottish football this season, already securing the title with an impressive unbeaten record. The manager has emphasized maintaining motivation:
“We want to set a new clean sheet record and complete the season unbeaten. The Old Firm always helps in terms of getting players in the zone,” Gerrard told Jeetwin.
Rangers‘ likely 4-3-3 formation has been their trademark this season, with their set-piece prowess proving particularly effective against Celtic – their last five league goals in this fixture all came from dead-ball situations.
Celtic’s Search for Redemption
Kennedy faces the challenge of lifting a squad that has underperformed this season:
“We have to be more clinical. When you’re ruthless it breeds confidence and flow in your football,” the interim boss admitted.
Celtic may revisit their diamond formation that showed promise in recent encounters, but their away form remains concerning – winless in three league outings on the road.
Key Battles That Could Decide the Match
Set-Piece Supremacy
With Rangers‘ recent success from dead-ball situations against their rivals, Celtic’s defensive organization at corners and free-kicks will be crucial. Simpson’s aerial ability in his first Old Firm start could prove pivotal.
Midfield Control
The absence of Scott Arfield tests Rangers‘ midfield depth, while Celtic will look to dominate possession through their technically gifted players. Steven Davis’ recent creative form (two assists in last two games) makes him a key figure for the hosts.
Striker Showdown
Alfredo Morelos and Odsonne Edouard have been their teams’ talismans. Edouard has been involved in nine of Celtic’s last 13 league goals against Rangers, while Morelos will be desperate to break his Old Firm duck this season.
Psychological Edge: Have Rangers Already Won the Mental Battle?
Former Rangers midfielder Charlie Adam provided insightful analysis: “Rangers are in Celtic’s heads because of what they’ve done this season. They showed unbelievable focus while Celtic had dressing room issues with players wanting to leave.”
The statistics support this view – Rangers are unbeaten in four league meetings with Celtic (W3 D1), including three this season. Their home form has been particularly impressive, winning all 17 Premiership matches at Ibrox this campaign.
Historical Context and Records at Stake
- Rangers could complete their first unbeaten Old Firm league season since 1999-2000 under Dick Advocaat
- Celtic have lost three of their last four league visits to Ibrox
- Rangers are chasing a new home winning streak record in Scotland’s top flight
- James Tavernier (11 goals, 9 assists) and Odsonne Edouard (16 goals, 4 assists) lead the Premiership in goal contributions
Where to Watch and Follow the Action
For global fans, Jeetwin will provide comprehensive live coverage of this epic clash. The match will be broadcast live with pre-game analysis starting from 11am GMT.
Final Predictions and Closing Thoughts
While Rangers enter as favorites given their dominant season, Old Firm derbies often defy form and logic. Celtic will be desperate to spoil their rivals’ unbeaten Premiership campaign, while Rangers aim to cement their superiority in Glasgow.
The key factors likely to decide this encounter:
- Rangers’ makeshift defense vs Celtic’s returning attackers
- Set-piece execution
- Which team handles the occasion’s pressure better
- Whether Celtic can be more clinical in front of goal
As Charlie Adam perfectly summarized: “Form goes out the window in these games.” One thing is certain – Jeetwin will be there to bring you every moment of this Scottish football spectacle.
