Rangers vs Celtic Prediction, Match Preview & Betting Tips, January 2, 2025

The iconic Old Firm Derby, Rangers vs Celtic, will set the stage for a thrilling Scottish Premiership showdown on January 2, 2025. This highly anticipated clash at the famed Ibrox Stadium is not just about tradition—it’s pivotal in the title race. Celtic currently top the league with a commanding 50 points, remaining unbeaten. They average an impressive 2.76 points per game, showing their dominance. Meanwhile, Rangers are second with 36 points and are keen to use their strong home form to challenge Celtic’s lead.

Rangers’ recent form is a mixed bag: one win, two draws, and two losses in their last five matches. Among these results, a 1-1 draw against Olympiacos in the Europa League stands out. It shows their grit on the international stage. The last match between these two teams was electrifying, with Celtic narrowly defeating Rangers 8-7. This result highlights the excitement these encounters usually bring. Key players for Rangers include their top scorer, Vaclav Cerny, and new defensive signing, Robin Pröpper, both crucial to their strategy in this match.

Rangers vs Celtic Prediction & Betting Tip

This intensely competitive fixture sees Celtic slightly favored due to their undefeated league run so far. Despite Rangers’ strong home record, their recent inconsistency adds unpredictability to this heated match-up. Celtic’s dominant form makes them a smart choice for an Asian Handicap bet, set at 0.00 odds at 1.7. This bet captures their current strength and their ability to handle the challenges at Ibrox.

While these odds reflect Celtic’s stronghold in the league, Rangers have the potential to end their unbeaten streak. An important aspect to watch will be how Rangers’ attacking wings manage Celtic’s disciplined defense.

Rangers vs Celtic Odds

This Old Firm Derby promises not only high-energy football but also intriguing betting opportunities. Given Celtic’s unbeaten run, they are the favorites. However, considering the fixture’s history and Rangers’ determination, the odds suggest a more even playing field. The potential for a Rangers win is enhanced by their home advantage and the intense rivalry atmosphere.

Odds for a draw highlight the closely contested nature of these encounters, as derby matches can often defy the norm. Bets on high-scoring outcomes may be popular, considering the thrilling results of past clashes.

Rangers Team Analysis

Rangers Recent Performance

Rangers’ recent results may seem a bit erratic, marked by a victory over Dundee FC. However, their strong unbeaten home record in the league remains a vital factor as they prepare to face Celtic. They have one clean sheet and have scored 12 goals while conceding 13 in their last five games, indicating a need for defensive improvement.

Injury setbacks are affecting Rangers’ creativity and attacking depth. Yet, the consistent leadership of captain James Tavernier in defense offers stability.

Rangers Key Players

Vaclav Cerny, Rangers’ top scorer with seven goals this season, will be key to breaking down Celtic’s defense. Alongside Cerny, Abdallah Sima could pose a significant offensive threat, health permitting. Captain James Tavernier holds the defensive line, crucial for stopping Celtic’s advances.

Jack Butland provides reliable goalkeeping, while Oscar Cortes and Nicholas Raskin strengthen midfield stability. Coach Philippe Clement is expected to use these key players to creatively outsmart Celtic and close the points gap in the standings.

Rangers Suspensions & Injuries

Injuries are a major concern for Rangers, affecting their tactical plans and squad depth. Tom Lawrence is sidelined with a knock, and Neraysho Kasanwirjo is dealing with a knee issue. Rabbi Matondo’s hamstring strain further limits their attacking capabilities. Defensive adjustments may be necessary, relying on Robin Pröpper’s experience to fill gaps.

Despite these setbacks, Rangers have shown resilience, utilizing their roster depth to maintain competitiveness.

Rangers Tactics and Formation

Rangers are likely to stick with a 4-3-3 formation, which balances defensive strength and offensive flexibility. This setup allows control in the midfield, focusing on defensive discipline and efficient attacking transitions. Philippe Clement might emphasize using fullbacks, particularly James Tavernier, for strong crossing plays.

The midfield will try to dominate possession, relying on Nicholas Raskin and Oscar Cortes to disrupt Celtic’s flow. With Butland’s experience strengthening the defense led by Pröpper and Tavernier, Rangers aim to suppress Celtic’s offense while making the most of any counter-attacking chances through their skillful forwards.

Celtic Team Analysis

Celtic Recent Performance

Celtic’s form is spectacular, highlighted by a substantial lead in the Premiership. Their recent victories, including a commanding 4-0 win over St. Johnstone, show their consistency and attacking strength. They’ve balanced both domestic and European matches with remarkable regularity.

Celtic’s defense has thrived too, securing four clean sheets in their past games, which gives them an advantage heading into the Old Firm clash.

Celtic Key Players

Kyogo Furuhashi, Celtic’s leading scorer with eight goals, is at the heart of their attack. His skill in exploiting defensive weaknesses will be crucial in rattling the Rangers defense. Callum McGregor, with his strategic playmaking in midfield, aims to set the pace, connecting with forwards like Yang and Kuehn to breach defenses.

Kasper Schmeichel lends veteran presence in goal, while defenders Cameron Carter-Vickers and Liam Scales reliably block opponent advances. Creative midfielders Paulo Bernardo and Reo Hatate offer further tactical options and depth.

Celtic Suspensions & Injuries

Celtic aren’t without injury challenges, which impact squad choices. Odin Thiago Holm is recovering from a calf issue, and James Forrest is out with a foot injury. Alistair Johnston’s availability is uncertain due to a hip problem.

Celtic’s extensive squad depth allows them to manage these injuries without compromising on tactical strength.

Celtic Tactics and Formation

Celtic is likely to employ a dynamic 4-2-3-1 formation, favoring a high press led by Furuhashi. This strategy hinges on aggressive territorial play and swift transitions. Possession control is key, aiming to dictate the game’s pace through strategic midfield handling by McGregor and Hatate.

Their solid defense, organized by Carter-Vickers, supports an expansive attacking style. Brendan Rodgers will look to utilize Bernabei’s speed to widen play, maintaining robust defense through tactical discipline. Their flexible wings are set to challenge Rangers’ fullbacks, exploiting any defensive gaps.

Rangers vs Celtic Head-to-Head Statistics

Tensions peak in the Old Firm derby, a clash full of history and fierce rivalry. In their past five meetings, Celtic has prevailed four times, indicating a head-to-head advantage. The last intense match, ending 8-7 in Celtic’s favor, captures the thrill of these showdowns, often marked by high scores.

Rangers are set on reversing this trend, aiming to break Celtic’s cycle of dominance by employing surprise tactics and strategic plays. The historical rivalry indicates this clash is set to deliver the usual mix of intensity and drama.

Venue and Weather

The Ibrox Stadium, known for its charged atmosphere, will host this crucial encounter. The home advantage for Rangers is significant, amplified by passionate fan support. Weather conditions forecast cold temperatures around 1.69°C, typical for a Glasgow winter, with scattered clouds allowing clear visibility.

Despite the chilly conditions, the field is expected to be in good playing condition. Mild winds should not disrupt play significantly, allowing both teams to execute their strategies fully. Players will need to stay warm to perform their best despite the cold weather, indicating meticulous pre-match preparations will be key.

Rangers are familiar with these conditions, possibly giving them a subtle edge as they face a well-prepared Celtic team. Both teams will try to use every advantage, on and off the pitch, as they battle for local and league supremacy in this historic matchup.