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The Old Firm derby, one of the most awaited fixtures in the Scottish football calendar, is set to reignite its age-old rivalry this weekend. Glasgow’s two giants, Rangers and Celtic, will face off at Ibrox on Sunday, Sep 3, 2023. With only a point separating the two sides early in the season, the stakes are higher than ever.

Analysis:

Rangers:

After enduring a disappointing 5-1 defeat by PSV Eindhoven, Michael Beale’s Rangers side are under pressure to bounce back. The Gers’ Champions League hopes were dashed with a 7-3 aggregate loss, highlighting potential vulnerabilities in their defense. The weight of this Old Firm match can’t be understated, especially after Rangers suffered a surprising 1-0 loss to Kilmarnock despite their dominant performance. However, there are positives for the Gers. Recent victories over Livingston and Ross County, scoring six goals and keeping two clean sheets, are promising signs of resilience.

Michael Beale will likely persist with the 4-3-1-2 setup, boasting the likes of Todd Cantwell supporting the in-form Cyriel Dessers. Rangers’ defense will be without Steven Davis, Kieran Dowell, and Ridvan Yilmaz due to injuries, posing a potential challenge.

Celtic:

On the other hand, the Bhoys, under the experienced Brendan Rodgers, have had a mixed start. A goalless draw against St Johnstone revealed Celtic’s inefficacies in converting their dominance into goals. Furthermore, an unexpected 1-0 defeat to Kilmarnock in the Scottish League Cup and a mere point separating them from Rangers in the league emphasizes the importance of this fixture.

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Injuries have plagued Celtic’s preparations, with key players like Cameron Carter-Vickers and James McCarthy sidelined. Rodgers’ 4-3-3 formation will rely on Kyogo Furuhashi’s prolific form and the midfield prowess of Matt O’Riley and David Turnbull.

Key Battles:

1. Goalkeepers: Jack Butland’s impressive start for Rangers will be tested against Celtic’s attacking might. Similarly, veteran Joe Hart, despite a dip in form, remains invaluable for Celtic with his match-winning saves.
2. Defenders: James Tavernier’s attacking instincts for Rangers will be pitted against Alistair Johnston, whose return has been instrumental for Celtic’s defense.
3. Midfield: Todd Cantwell’s dynamism and creativity will be key for Rangers, while Matt O’Riley’s recent performances make him a crucial asset for Celtic.
4. Forwards: Cyriel Dessers will be eager to end his goal drought for Rangers, while Kyogo Furuhashi, Celtic’s top marksman, will be the one to watch.

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Prediction:

Considering the recent form and given the stakes, the game is poised to be a closely contested affair. Rangers will be looking to redeem themselves after the European disappointment, while Celtic will aim to assert their dominance.

Goal.mu predicts: Rangers 2-2 Celtic. This prediction stems from both teams’ recent performances and the significance of the Old Firm Derby, where anything is possible.

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