The Rangers F.C. vs Celtic F.C. lineups 2024/2025 match is one of the most anticipated fixtures in Scottish football and worldwide. As both teams continue to strengthen their squads in preparation for the new season, fans eagerly await the tactical battles, star performances, and drama that the Old Firm rivalry guarantees. In this article, we’ll delve into the key players for each team, the anticipated formations, and how both clubs are shaping up for what promises to be a thrilling clash. Rangers, under Michael Beale’s leadership, have focused on tightening their defence and adding firepower to their attack, while Celtic, managed by Ange Postecoglou, continues to build on their possession-based style and high-intensity football.
Fans are buzzing about the new signings, the strategic approaches, and, of course, the fierce competition that defines every Old Firm encounter. Whether you’re a Rangers supporter, a Celtic fan, or just someone intrigued by one of the most heated rivalries in football, this guide will provide everything you need to know about the Rangers vs Celtic lineups 2024/2025, including the latest trends and predictions from across social media platforms like Meta, Google, and YouTube.
Key Players to Watch in Rangers vs Celtic 2024/2025
The Rangers vs Celtic rivalry, often referred to as the “Old Firm,” is more than just a football match. It’s a celebration of football culture, and the 2024/2025 encounter will bring some exciting individual talent to the forefront. Let’s take a look at some of the key players who could be game-changers for both teams:
Rangers’ Key Players
James Tavernier (Captain) One of the most influential players for Rangers, Tavernier’s leadership and attacking capabilities from right-back make him a vital cog in the Rangers lineup. His ability to deliver key crosses and contribute goals is something Celtic will need to keep a close eye on.
Ryan Kent Kent’s pace and dribbling ability have always been crucial for Rangers in their attacking play. His flair on the wing has troubled many defences, and this season, he will be looking to continue that form to give Rangers the upper hand over Celtic.
Antonio Colak Colak’s goal-scoring ability will be vital in the upcoming season. His physicality and ability to finish in tight situations make him a perfect fit for the rigours of Old Firm games, where every moment counts.
Borna Barišić The Croatian full-back is key both defensively and offensively. His crosses from the left flank can often unlock opposing defences, and his defensive awareness will be essential when facing Celtic’s attacking threats.
Celtic’s Key Players
Kyogo Furuhashi The Japanese forward is a fan favourite, and his movements in the final third will be something Rangers need to be wary of. Kyogo’s ability to find space and finish with precision has already proven deadly, and Rangers’ defenders will have their hands full.
Callum McGregor As Celtic’s midfield general, McGregor’s ability to dictate the tempo and break up play is crucial. His vision and leadership make him an indispensable part of Celtic’s lineup and one of the key players in this rivalry.
Jota The Portuguese winger is an attacking threat who can turn any game on its head. His creativity, technical ability, and flair make him an exciting prospect for Celtic as they look to dominate possession and impose their style on Rangers.
Cameron Carter-Vickers The American centre-back’s physicality and composure make him one of Celtic’s most reliable defensive options. In the heart of defence, Carter-Vickers will be tasked with keeping Rangers’ attacking line at bay, and his experience could be crucial in such a high-pressure game.
2024/2025 Tactical Approach: Rangers vs Celtic
Both Rangers and Celtic have different tactical philosophies, but their approaches are shaped by the intensity and rivalry of the Old Firm match. Let’s look at the tactical setups we can expect from both teams in the 2024/2025 season.
Rangers’ Tactical Setup
Under manager Michael Beale, Rangers are likely to play an aggressive, high-pressing game, especially when facing Celtic. Their formation will probably be a 4-3-3, with the midfielders playing a pivotal role in transitioning from defence to attack. Rangers are expected to rely on their full-backs, Tavernier and Barišić, to provide width and deliver crosses into the box for the likes of Colak and Kent.
In possession, Rangers will look to dominate the wings and exploit the space behind Celtic’s defensive line. They’ll press high up the pitch, looking to force Celtic into mistakes and take advantage of counter-attacking opportunities.
Celtic’s Tactical Setup
Celtic, under manager Ange Postecoglou, are known for their fast, possession-based football. Their tactical approach involves controlling the ball and patiently building attacks. Celtic will likely set up in a 4-3-3 formation, with McGregor pulling the strings in midfield and offering support to both the attack and the defence.
The key to Celtic’s success in this fixture will be their ability to stretch Rangers with quick, dynamic attacking play. Kyogo and Jota will look to exploit the spaces behind Rangers’ full-backs, while the midfield trio will attempt to dominate possession and neutralise Rangers’ pressing game.
Midfield Battle
The battle in midfield will be critical to the outcome of the match. With players like McGregor and Ryan Jack likely to feature in the heart of midfield for both teams, we can expect an intense and combative battle for dominance. Celtic’s emphasis on passing and possession will be tested by Rangers’ pressing game, and the midfield will be the key battleground where the game is won or lost.
The Latest Trends and News on Meta
As the Rangers vs Celtic match approaches, several trends have emerged across social media platforms, especially Meta. Here’s a look at the latest updates and what fans are saying:
“Old Firm” Hype on Social Media
Fans from both sides are already making their predictions for the 2024/2025 season, with Twitter and Instagram filled with heated debates about who has the stronger lineup. Hashtags like #OldFirm2025 and #RangersVsCeltic are trending, with fans eagerly discussing the potential impact of the new signings.
Key Signings Stirring Conversations
Both teams have made significant signings in the lead-up to the new season. Rangers’ acquisition of players with Premier League experience has caught the eye, while Celtic fans are excited about the continued development of their young stars. These signings have sparked debates about which team has the better squad, with opinions being shared across Meta platforms.
Tactical Discussions
Football analysts and fans alike are sharing their thoughts on the tactical approaches of both teams. On platforms like Facebook, detailed breakdowns of how both teams could approach the game have garnered a lot of attention, with fans eagerly awaiting tactical insights from experts.
Viral Match Predictions
As always, match predictions and lineups have become a viral trend. Football influencers are using Meta platforms to share their ideal lineups for both teams, with some even creating prediction videos. Fans are engaging with these posts, making their own predictions and discussing which players will make the biggest impact.
Rangers vs Celtic: Recent Results and Form
When it comes to Old Firm fixtures, recent form can be a significant factor. Here’s a quick overview of both teams’ performances leading up to the 2024/2025 season:
Rangers’ Recent Form
Rangers come into this season with a solid pre-season, securing wins in key fixtures. However, their performance against rivals Celtic in the previous season will undoubtedly be fresh in their minds. Rangers will be looking to bounce back and assert their dominance in the upcoming match.
Celtic’s Recent Form
Celtic has enjoyed a strong season so far, with Postecoglou’s tactical setup continuing to bear fruit. Their attacking play has been fluid, and their squad depth could prove advantageous in the fixture. The reigning champions will be looking to extend their Old Firm dominance and continue their impressive form.
FAQs
What was the starting lineup for Rangers F.C. in the January 2, 2025, match against Celtic F.C.?
Rangers lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation:
Goalkeeper: Liam Kelly
Defenders: Ridvan Yilmaz (right-back), Dujon Sterling and Robin Pröpper (centre-backs), Jefte (left-back)
Midfielders: Nicolas Raskin and Ibrahim Diomande (holding midfielders), with a trio of Cerny, Bajrami, and Ianis Hagi in advanced roles
Forward: Hamza Igamane
Final Thought
As the 2024/2025 season of Rangers F.C. vs Celtic F.C. lineups approaches, the excitement surrounding the match is palpable. Both teams are expected to bring their best to the field, with key players playing crucial roles in determining the outcome. With a tactical battle set to unfold and plenty of star power on display, this Old Firm clash will undoubtedly live up to its reputation as one of the most intense and thrilling fixtures in world football.
Whether you’re supporting Rangers, or Celtic, or just love the drama of the Old Firm, the 2024/2025 season promises to deliver plenty of memorable moments. Make sure to stay tuned as the season progresses, and don’t miss out on any of the action.
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