The Old Firm derby between Rangers and Celtic is back to kick off 2025, and all eyes are on this iconic Scottish Premiership clash. As one of the most intense football rivalries in the world, this matchup not only pits two Glasgow giants against each other but also carries major implications for the league standings.
Celtic, under Brendan Rodgers, have been in dominant form, leaving Rangers struggling to compete in recent years. Can Rangers finally break their seven-match winless streak in the derby, or will Celtic continue their reign at the top of Scottish football? Here’s everything you need to know, including team news, predictions, and how to watch Rangers vs Celtic live.
Why the Rangers vs Celtic Rivalry Matters in 2025
The Old Firm derby history is rich with passion, but in recent years, Celtic have dominated both the head-to-head and the Scottish Premiership title race. The Hoops have won 12 of the last 13 championships, while Rangers’ last league triumph came in the 2020/21 season. As things stand, Celtic lead the Premiership by 14 points, making this clash critical for Rangers’ hopes of salvaging their campaign.
Key Details for Rangers vs Celtic
Where is Rangers vs Celtic being played? Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow, Scotland
When is Rangers vs Celtic?
Thursday, 2 January 2025
What time does Rangers vs Celtic start? 15:00 GMT / 10:00 ET / 07:00 PT
Who is refereeing the Old Firm derby? Dan Robertson
VAR official: Nick Walsh
Rangers vs Celtic Head-to-Head and Form Guide
Recent Head-to-Head Results
Rangers: 0 wins
Celtic: 4 wins
Draws: 1
Last meeting: Celtic 3-3 (8-7 on penalties) Rangers, Scottish League Cup, 15 December 2024.
Current Form
Rangers recent results: Draw vs Motherwell (2-2), Loss vs St. Mirren (2-1), Win vs Dundee (1-0)
Celtic recent results: Win vs St. Johnstone (4-0), Win vs Motherwell (4-0), Draw vs Dundee United (0-0)
Celtic remain unbeaten domestically, with just four goals conceded in 18 league games.
Predicted Lineups for Rangers vs Celtic
Rangers Starting XI (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Butland
Defenders: Sterling, Balogun, King, Yilmaz
Midfielders: Diomande, Raskin, Cerny, Bajrami, Hagi
Forward: Igamane
Rangers will miss captain James Tavernier and Tom Lawrence due to injuries, while Leon Balogun remains a doubt.
Celtic Starting XI (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper: Schmeichel
Defenders: Johnston, Carter-Vickers, Trusty, Taylor
Midfielders: Bernardo, McGregor, Hatate
Forwards: Kuhn, Kyogo, Maeda
Celtic’s only notable absentees are James Forrest and Odin Thiago Holm.
How to Watch Rangers vs Celtic Live: TV Channels and Streams
UK viewers: Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Football, NOW, Sky Ultra HD
US viewers: fuboTV, CBS Sports Network
Canada viewers: Celtic TV, Rangers TV
Search for “Rangers vs Celtic live streaming options” or “how to watch Old Firm derby 2025” to find real-time coverage details.
Rangers vs Celtic Prediction: Can Rangers End Celtic’s Run?
Despite being the home side, Rangers are up against a Celtic team firing on all cylinders. The Ibrox crowd will provide a boost, but Celtic’s defensive record and clinical attack—led by Kyogo Furuhashi, who has eight Old Firm derby goals—make them strong favorites.
Predicted Score: Rangers 0-2 Celtic