The Hoops know three points will all but seal the Premiership trophy
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This weekend is the one that the Rangers need to win on Derby Day, if ever.
Given the stakes, Philippe Clement has never won an Old Firm match, and Saturday’s game at Parkhead against Celtic is probably going to be among the hardest of the Belgian’s career. In addition to being crucial for the Light Blues’ chances in the title battle, a victory on their opponents’ pitch, in front of 60,000 eager home fans, would also provide a newfound sense of pleasure and quiet the crowd.
With only the maths remaining, Brendan Rodgers, on the other hand, sees the match as his chance to silence any doubters and virtually win the trophy. With just two games remaining, the margin would be six points and a better goal differential. It would take a major blow for the Hoops to give up the trophy after that.
McDonald Ryan
For the Rangers on Saturday, it’s game or death. If they win, they might have the title and the Treble. If Celtic fails, they will be shadowed for another season. It really is that easy. Even if Philippe Clement manages to save a point, the Celtics would need to implode spectacularly in order to give the Premiership to their rivals.
In front of 60,000 Celtic supporters at Parkhead, the odds are stacked against the Gers earning a precious three points, especially considering they have yet to defeat Brendan Rodgers this season.
With so much on the line for both sides, I predict a tonne of goals in Glasgow’s east end, along with one or two red cards. Willie Collum and VAR Steven McLean may have a hectic afternoon, but hopefully the news will focus on another derby classic rather than a controversy involving the refereeing. Celtic is my pick to narrowly win.
Rangers 3-2 Celtic is the prediction.
Hendry Mark
In terms of the race for the championship this season, this game is absolutely crucial, and Celtic has every advantage. In front of a sea of green and white with no away punters in the door, Brendan Rodgers knows how to win these matchups at the best of times. Rangers would do well to end the game early, but I don’t think it will happen.
I can honestly envision a 90-minute game that is very similar to the one that took place in February 2022, when Reo Hatate scored a brace and the Celtics easily defeated their opponents. I predict that the Hoops will come out of the traps at 100 mph. I apologise to Rangers supporters, but I see a convincing win at home for your team.
Rangers 0–1 Celtic is the prediction.
Blair Meikle
There was a suggestion going into the most recent Old Firm derby that Rangers had a good chance of winning the match. They don’t seem to have nearly as much of a chance this time around because that didn’t happen.
Despite the fact that the Hoops haven’t played at their best all season, they haven’t won the matchup. At a critical juncture, Brendan Rodgers’ team is now clicking and looking good.
In front of their own supporters, I anticipate that Celtic will dominate the game at home. They have the players, in Matt O’Riley, Reo Hatate, and Kyogo, to provide the crucial moments and turn that dominance into something meaningful. A strong showing and outcome that nearly wins the crown.
Rangers 1-3 Celtic is the prediction.
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