Rangers vs Celtic Prediction, Betting Tips

Rangers vs Celtic Prediction, Betting Tips

Posted on May 2, 2025 by in Football
Rangers vs Celtic Prediction, Betting Tips

The final Old Firm derby of the 2024–25 Scottish Premiership season is set to ignite passions as Rangers host Celtic at Ibrox Stadium on Sunday, May 4, 2025. While Celtic have already clinched their fourth consecutive league title, equaling Rangers’ record of 55 league championships, this match remains a high-stakes encounter steeped in history, pride, and fierce rivalry.

Match Preview

Date & Time:

  • Date: Sunday, May 4, 2025
  • Kick-off: 3:00 PM BST
  • Venue: Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow

Broadcast:

  • Live on: Sky Sports Main Event

Fan Attendance:

For the first time since 2023, away fans will be present at the Old Firm derby, with 4% of Ibrox’s capacity allocated to Celtic supporters.

Head-to-Head

The Old Firm derby is one of football’s most storied rivalries, with this match marking the 446th competitive meeting between Rangers and Celtic. Rangers hold a slight edge with 171 wins to Celtic’s 170, and 104 matches have ended in draws.

Recent Encounters:

  • March 16, 2025: Rangers 3–2 Celtic (Scottish Premiership)
  • December 15, 2024: Celtic 3–3 Rangers (Scottish League Cup Final; Celtic won 5–4 on penalties)
  • January 2, 2025: Rangers 3–0 Celtic (Scottish Premiership)

 Current Form & Team News

Rangers:

Rangers have experienced a turbulent season, currently sitting second in the league but without a trophy. Interim manager Barry Ferguson faces pressure to end the season on a high note.

Recent Form:

  • Winless in their last five matches.
  • Strong home record with 11 wins in their last 13 home games.

Injury Concerns:

  • Dujon Sterling, Ridvan Yilmaz, Leon Balogun, and Neraysho Kasanwirjo are sidelined.

Celtic:

Celtic enter the derby in formidable form, having secured the league title and aiming for a domestic treble with the Scottish Cup final ahead.

Recent Form:

  • Unbeaten in their last 18 matches across all competitions.
  • Dominant recent performances, including a 5–0 victory over Dundee United.

Injury Concerns:

  • Jota is out until next season.
  • Daizen Maeda, Nicolas Kühn, and Alistair Johnston missed recent training sessions.

 Tactical Analysis

Rangers:

Under Ferguson, Rangers are expected to deploy a 3-4-1-2 formation, focusing on solid defense and quick transitions. Key players include captain James Tavernier and forward Hamza Igamane, who scored the winning goal in the previous Old Firm derby.

Celtic:

Brendan Rodgers’ side typically lines up in a 4-3-3 formation, emphasizing possession and attacking width. With potential absences in the squad, experienced players like James Forrest may play crucial roles.

Betting Tips & Odds

Match Result:

  • Celtic Win: Odds around 11/10
  • Draw: Odds around 12/5
  • Rangers Win: Odds around 9/4

Both Teams to Score:

  • Yes: Odds around 4/6
  • No: Odds around 11/10

Over/Under 2.5 Goals:

  • Over 2.5: Odds around 8/11
  • Under 2.5: Odds around 11/10

Anytime Goalscorer:

  • Daizen Maeda (Celtic): Odds around 7/4
  • Hamza Igamane (Rangers): Odds around 2/1

Odds are subject to change and may vary between bookmakers.

Prediction

Despite Rangers’ strong home form and recent derby victories, Celtic’s current momentum and depth make them slight favorites. However, the Old Firm derby often defies form, and a closely contested match is expected.

Predicted Score: Rangers 2–2 Celtic

Historical Context

The Old Firm rivalry transcends football, rooted in cultural, religious, and political divisions in Glasgow. Both clubs have dominated Scottish football, with a combined 110 league titles. Their encounters are marked by intense competition and passionate fanbases, making each match a significant event in Scottish sports.

Final Thoughts

The final Old Firm derby of the season promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams eager to assert dominance despite the league standings. Fans can expect a match filled with passion, skill, and the unpredictable drama that defines this historic rivalry.

 

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