The Old Firm derby, one of the most fiercely contested rivalries in world football, pits Celtic F.C. against Rangers F.C. in a match that often captures the imagination of football fans worldwide. The two Glasgow giants meet regularly in the Scottish Premiership, and every encounter brings its own set of expectations, emotions, and tactical intricacies. In this article, we take a detailed look at the lineups expected for the Celtic vs Rangers clash, focusing on the latest available information, key players, and how both teams are shaping up for this historic match.
Celtic F.C. Lineup Overview
Tactical Setup: 4-3-3 Formation
Celtic, under manager Brendan Rodgers, are known for their attacking style of play, fluid possession game, and high pressing tactics. It’s no surprise that they typically line up in a 4-3-3 formation, which balances defensive stability with the freedom for the forwards to express themselves. Celtic’s squad is packed with talent, and they will look to take the game to Rangers in front of their home supporters at Celtic Park.
Key Players in the Lineup
Celtic’s attacking force is formidable, and the lineup reflects that. Kyogo Furuhashi, the club’s star forward, is expected to lead the attack. The Japanese forward has been in excellent form, scoring consistently in the league and contributing to Celtic’s overall dominance. Alongside him, Jota and Daizen Maeda provide width and pace, which will be vital in stretching Rangers’ defense.
In midfield, Reo Hatate and Matt O’Riley are likely to feature as the central midfielders, with Callum McGregor playing as the anchor. McGregor’s ability to dictate the tempo and break up the opposition’s play will be crucial in this high-stakes encounter.
Defensively, Celtic’s backline will be tested, and their strength lies in the full-backs. Alistair Johnston on the right and Greg Taylor on the left will be essential in both defensive duties and providing width going forward. In the heart of the defense, Cameron Carter-Vickers and Maik Nawrocki are expected to start, offering solidity and physicality to keep Rangers’ forwards at bay.
Joe Hart, the experienced goalkeeper, will likely retain his spot in goal. His leadership at the back and ability to organize the defense will be crucial in maintaining a clean sheet during this high-pressure match.
Rangers F.C. Lineup Overview
Tactical Setup: 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 Formation
Rangers, managed by Michael Beale, often adopt a flexible tactical setup that can shift between a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation. The key to Rangers’ approach will be their counter-attacking style, looking to exploit the spaces left by Celtic’s high press. The team has shown that they can play with great intensity in midfield and possess a dangerous forward line capable of producing moments of magic.
Key Players in the Lineup
Rangers’ attack is built around the prolific Antonio Čolak, who has become a consistent goal-scorer for the club. His presence in the box and his ability to finish chances makes him a key player in the matchup. On the wings, Ryan Kent and Rabbi Matondo are expected to provide pace and flair, particularly in transition moments when Rangers look to counter-attack quickly.
In the middle of the park, Rangers will rely on the industrious John Lundstram and the experienced Glen Kamara. Lundstram is a box-to-box midfielder who contributes both defensively and in attack, while Kamara’s ball retention and passing range will be key to controlling possession. The defensive midfield role might be taken by Jack or Kamara, offering protection to the backline.
At the back, Rangers will rely on Connor Goldson and Ben Davies to handle the attacking threat posed by Celtic’s front three. The two center-backs are solid, strong in the air, and capable of dealing with the physicality and pace of Celtic’s forwards. On the wings, James Tavernier and Borna Barišić provide attacking options, especially on set pieces. Tavernier, in particular, is known for his ability to deliver dangerous balls into the box and his leadership as club captain.
Rangers’ goalkeeper, Allan McGregor, is expected to start, bringing his wealth of experience and shot-stopping ability. McGregor will be tasked with keeping Celtic’s potent attack at bay, especially in one-on-one situations.
How Do Celtic and Rangers Lineups Compare?
Attack: Speed and Creativity
Both teams boast creative and dynamic attacking players. Celtic’s front line, featuring Kyogo Furuhashi, Jota, and Daizen Maeda, relies heavily on pace, quick passing, and high pressing. They look to overwhelm opponents with fast transitions and quick combination play. Rangers, on the other hand, will attempt to counter-attack with the speed of Ryan Kent and Rabbi Matondo, who can exploit spaces left by Celtic’s advancing full-backs.
While Celtic may enjoy more possession in the game, Rangers will look to capitalize on moments when they win the ball in dangerous areas and break quickly. Both teams have clinical finishers, with Celtic’s Kyogo and Rangers’ Čolak expected to be the focal points in their respective attacks.
Midfield: Control and Ball Movement
In midfield, Celtic’s Callum McGregor is the key playmaker, looking to orchestrate the game with his vision and composure. He will be supported by Matt O’Riley and Reo Hatate, both of whom have the technical ability to move the ball quickly and break down opposition lines. Celtic’s midfield will focus on controlling the tempo and maintaining possession to wear down Rangers.
Rangers’ midfield, with the physical presence of John Lundstram and the technical skills of Glen Kamara, will look to disrupt Celtic’s rhythm and break up attacks. Rangers will need to be compact and defensively disciplined, while also providing quick transitions into attack.
Defense: Sturdy and Resilient
Defensively, both teams have solid backlines, but Celtic’s full-backs provide more attacking support. Greg Taylor and Alistair Johnston are essential for both defending and overlapping on the flanks to provide width. The key for Celtic will be maintaining defensive solidity, as Rangers will look to exploit any spaces in behind when the full-backs push forward.
Rangers’ defense is built around Connor Goldson and Ben Davies, two players with good aerial ability and a strong physical presence. While they are likely to face significant pressure from Celtic’s attacking players, the duo has shown their resilience in big games.
Goalkeeping: Experience at the Back
Both Celtic and Rangers boast experienced goalkeepers in Joe Hart and Allan McGregor. Hart, known for his leadership and shot-stopping ability, will be the focal point of Celtic’s defense. McGregor, one of Scotland’s best-ever goalkeepers, brings vast experience and agility to Rangers’ backline, often making crucial saves in high-pressure situations.
Key Tactical Battle: High Press vs Counter-Attack
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Celtic vs Rangers encounter lies in the tactical battle between Celtic’s high press and Rangers’ counter-attacking style. Celtic will likely dominate possession and press high up the pitch, hoping to force mistakes and create openings. Rangers, on the other hand, will sit deeper and look to spring quick counters, making the most of the pace of their wingers and the strength of Čolak up front.
Both managers, Brendan Rodgers and Michael Beale, have set their teams up to exploit the other’s weaknesses. Celtic’s pressing game will try to disrupt Rangers’ build-up play, while Rangers will look to absorb pressure and break quickly when they win the ball.
FAQs
What is the expected lineup for Celtic F.C. in the Old Firm derby against Rangers F.C.?
Celtic F.C. is expected to start with a 4-3-3 formation for the Old Firm derby against Rangers. Key players such as Kyogo Furuhashi, Jota, and Daizen Maeda are expected to lead the attack. In midfield, Callum McGregor will likely anchor the team with support from Reo Hatate and Matt O’Riley. Defensively, Cameron Carter-Vickers and Maik Nawrocki are expected to start as center-backs, while full-backs Alistair Johnston and Greg Taylor provide width. Joe Hart is anticipated to start in goal, bringing his experience and leadership.
How does Rangers F.C.’s lineup compare for the Celtic clash?
Rangers F.C. are expected to line up in a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation, with a focus on counter-attacking football. Antonio Čolak is set to lead the line as the main striker, supported by Ryan Kent and Rabbi Matondo on the wings. Midfield will likely consist of John Lundstram, Glen Kamara, and possibly Scott Arfield, who will aim to disrupt Celtic’s possession-based game and create quick transitions. At the back, Connor Goldson and Ben Davies are expected to start as center-backs, with James Tavernier and Borna Barišić providing attacking options from full-back positions. Allan McGregor is the likely starter in goal, offering his wealth of experience.
Who are the key players to watch in Celtic’s lineup?
In Celtic’s lineup, the key players to watch include Kyogo Furuhashi, who is in excellent form as a central striker and consistently finds the back of the net. Jota and Daizen Maeda are crucial for their pace, skill, and ability to stretch the defense. In midfield, Callum McGregor’s leadership and ball distribution are central to Celtic’s dominance, while Reo Hatate and Matt O’Riley add energy and creativity. At the back, Cameron Carter-Vickers’ defensive prowess will be vital in handling Rangers’ attackers.
Who are the standout players in Rangers’ lineup?
Rangers’ standout players include Antonio Čolak, the team’s main goal-scoring threat. His ability to finish chances and hold up the ball makes him a key figure in the attack. Ryan Kent and Rabbi Matondo offer pace and creativity, capable of exploiting space on the counter. In midfield, John Lundstram is essential for both defensive cover and his ability to drive forward. Glen Kamara adds technical quality, while Connor Goldson and Ben Davies form a solid center-back pairing to deal with Celtic’s attacking threats.
What formation will Celtic F.C. likely use against Rangers F.C.?
Celtic F.C. will likely stick with their usual 4-3-3 formation. This setup provides balance between attacking and defending. With wingers like Jota and Maeda stretching the play, and central midfielder Callum McGregor dictating the tempo, this formation allows Celtic to play their preferred possession-based game. The full-backs, Alistair Johnston and Greg Taylor, are also key to the system, both contributing in attack and defense.
What tactical approach will Rangers F.C. take in the Old Firm derby?
Rangers F.C. are expected to focus on a counter-attacking approach, with a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 formation. They will likely sit deep to absorb Celtic’s pressure and look to exploit the spaces left by the attacking full-backs. With the pace of Kent and Matondo on the flanks, Rangers will aim to break quickly and use their wide players to stretch Celtic’s defensive lines. The central midfielders, such as Lundstram and Kamara, will play a crucial role in winning back possession and starting these transitions.
How important is the midfield battle in the Celtic vs Rangers match?
The midfield battle will be crucial in determining the outcome of the match. Celtic’s midfield trio of Callum McGregor, Reo Hatate, and Matt O’Riley will look to dominate possession, control the tempo, and break down Rangers’ defensive shape. In contrast, Rangers’ midfield, with players like John Lundstram and Glen Kamara, will aim to disrupt Celtic’s flow, win second balls, and launch quick counter-attacks. The team that wins the midfield battle will likely gain the upper hand in controlling the game.
Conclusion
The lineups for Celtic F.C. vs Rangers F.C. are packed with talented players who have the ability to turn a match in an instant. From the attacking flair of Jota and Kyogo to the defensive solidity of Goldson and Carter-Vickers, this match will be a battle of contrasting styles and strengths. Celtic will rely on their attacking play and high press, while Rangers will look to capitalize on counter-attacks and set-piece opportunities. Both teams have the quality to win the game, and it promises to be another unforgettable installment of the Old Firm rivalry.
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