Rangers vs Celtic: Match Preview, Latest Team News and Score Prediction | OneFootball

Rangers vs Celtic Old Firm Preview and Prediction

High Stakes at Ibrox

The Scottish Premiership’s most iconic fixture arrives early this season as Rangers prepare to host Celtic in the first Old Firm derby of the campaign. The pressure surrounding this clash is already intense, with both clubs enduring damaging Champions League exits midweek.

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“Rangers were thumped 6-0 away at Club Brugge on Wednesday night to lose 9-1 on aggregate in their play-off qualifier and are still searching for a first league win under new head coach Russell Martin.” Celtic fared little better, bowing out against Kairat on penalties after failing to score in either leg.

Despite their European setback, Brendan Rodgers’ side carry strong domestic form into the game. “Celtic have, however, made a strong start to the defence of their crown, winning all three league games so far without conceding a goal.”

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Match Details and Broadcast Information

Rangers vs Celtic is scheduled for a 12pm BST kick-off on Sunday, August 31, 2025, with Ibrox providing the stage. UK viewers can watch the game live on Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Football and Sky Sports Ultra HDR, with coverage beginning at 11am BST. Sky Sports subscribers can also stream the game via the Sky Go app.

Team News from Both Camps

Martin is expected to make multiple changes following Rangers’ heavy loss in Belgium. “Max Aarons could be further punished for his red card in Belgium with captain James Tavernier on standby to start at right-back.” The likes of Cyriel Dessers and Tottenham loanee Mikey Moore are pushing for starts, having been unused substitutes midweek.

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Rodgers, meanwhile, faces a different challenge, managing fatigue after a demanding trip to Kazakhstan. “The good news for the Hoops is no fresh injuries have been reported. Adam Idah is in contention to lead the line, but Daizen Maeda could keep his place.”

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Celtic will also welcome back a familiar face to this storied fixture. “Kieran Tierney is set for his first taste of Old Firm action since 2019 as he looks to preserve a proud record of never losing a league game against Rangers.”

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Prediction and Historical Context

Derby form is notoriously difficult to read, but there is little doubt that Martin finds himself under pressure. “It’s safe to say the pressure is very much on Martin as losing his first derby in the same week as Rangers failing to make the Champions League proper would surely see some supporters calling for his head, even at this early stage.”

Celtic’s form and stability make them slight favourites, and Rodgers’ team have the chance to extend their perfect start to the season. “That said, a lack of experience in this fixture could count against Martin as Celtic make it four wins from four at the start of the season.”

Predicted score: Celtic to win, 3-1.

Historically, Rangers edge the head-to-head record. “Rangers are unbeaten in the last three meetings against Celtic, winning 3-0 at Ibrox at the start of 2025 before earning a point in the most recent clash back in May.”

Current record: Rangers wins: 171, Celtic wins: 169, Draws: 105.