In the realm of sports, there exists a unique bond between fans and their teams, a connection that transcends mere entertainment and speaks to the very heart of human emotion. It’s a relationship built on passion, loyalty, and the shared experience of triumph and defeat. And in the world of football, few rivalries capture this essence as poignantly as the Old Firm clash between Rangers and Celtic.
The anticipation is palpable as the two Glasgow giants prepare to face off in the first Old Firm match of the 2025/26 season. The stage is set for a fiery showdown that could set the tone for the title race, with Celtic riding high after a dominant start to the campaign and Rangers looking to make a statement under Philippe Clement.
The pundits have weighed in, with Chris Sutton predicting a 2-0 Celtic victory. “Celtic are in scintillating form, scoring five goals in each of their last three games,” Sutton noted, referencing their recent thrashings of St Johnstone and Dundee United. He highlighted the pace of Daizen Maeda and the goal-scoring threat of Kyogo Furuhashi, suggesting Rangers’ defense will struggle to contain them.
Andy Walker, another former Celtic striker, echoed Sutton’s optimism but was more reserved, predicting a narrow 1-0 win for the Hoops. “Celtic will be stung by those defeats,” he said, noting Rodgers’ determination to reassert dominance. Walker believes Celtic’s recent form, coupled with their strengthened squad, gives them the edge, but he warned that Rangers’ home advantage at Ibrox could make it a tight contest.
Kris Boyd, a Rangers icon, offered a more cautious take, refusing to commit to a clear winner. “Rangers will want to put on a show in front of their fans,” he said, acknowledging their inconsistent season but highlighting their ability to raise their game against Celtic, as evidenced by their two victories last term. Boyd believes Rangers’ attacking options, like Cyriel Dessers and Vaclav Cerny, could exploit Celtic’s injury-hit defense, but he admitted Celtic’s firepower makes them favorites.
As the two teams take to the pitch, the drama and tension will be palpable. Will Celtic extend their dominance, or will Rangers restore pride? The outcome is far from certain, but one thing is clear: this Old Firm clash promises to be an unforgettable spectacle.
