Sport nationCeltic Dominates Old Firm Derby, Leaving Rangers with Worries
Celtic’s 3-0 victory over Rangers in the first Old Firm derby of the season has sparked concerns about Rangers’ ability to challenge for the title. Former Rangers striker Kris Boyd criticized Rangers, saying, “Celtic make things happen. Rangers hope things happen.” This stark assessment underscores the gulf between the two teams, with Celtic’s dominance raising questions about Rangers’ capacity to compete.
The match itself was a masterclass from Celtic, with Brendan Rodgers’ side pressing relentlessly and creating numerous chances. Nicolas Kuhn and Daizen Maeda excelled in wide areas, causing constant problems for the Rangers defense. Maeda, Kyogo, and Callum McGregor scored, highlighting the gap between the teams.
Former Rangers striker Billy Dodds praised Celtic, saying, “They’re in a rich vein of form and play with confidence, pace, and energy.” Boyd questioned whether any Rangers players could make it into Celtic’s team, answering, “None. Not a single player.” This damning verdict reflects the significant disparity between the two squads.
Rangers’ struggles were apparent, with a lack of composure in and out of possession. James Tavernier had a particularly tough day, struggling against Maeda. The Rangers captain’s usually reliable delivery from set pieces was also found wanting, adding to the visitors’ woes.
Philippe Clement’s post-match optimism was met with skepticism, despite his claims that Rangers can still mount a title challenge. “We are a young team, only just together,” the Belgian said. “The starting XI of Celtic have a lot of experience together. We have a lot of things to work on – we know. We knew that before the game already.”
Clement’s attempts to spin the defeat as a learning experience may be seen as overly positive, given the extent of Celtic’s dominance. “In that way, it’s positive there were good signs in the way we started, but there are also lots of details to work on,” he added.
However, the statistics tell a different story. Celtic’s 3-0 victory was not an anomaly; it reflected the significant gap between the two teams. Rangers’ inability to cope with Celtic’s intensity and pace raises serious concerns about their title aspirations.
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner echoed this sentiment, saying, “When they play at that speed and tempo, nobody in this country can deal with them.” This stark assessment highlights the challenge facing Rangers and other Scottish teams.
Rodgers, meanwhile, was delighted with his team’s performance. “In a lot of attacking moments, we were so exciting to watch,” he said. “It’s so early, but I’m pleased with the mentality of the squad. The football and intensity and the speed has been so pleasing.”
Celtic’s dominance in the derby extends beyond this single match. They have consistently outperformed Rangers in recent meetings, with Rodgers’ tactical acumen and player selection proving decisive.
As the season progresses, Rangers will need to address their shortcomings if they hope to challenge Celtic. The five-point gap between the teams after just four league games is significant, and Celtic’s momentum shows no signs of slowing.
Clement’s optimism may be genuine, but it seems misplaced given the evidence. Rangers’ defeat was not just a minor setback; it exposed deeper structural issues within the team.
The Old Firm derby is often seen as a benchmark for Scottish football, and Celtic’s victory sends a clear message. They are the team to beat, and Rangers will need to significantly improve if they hope to challenge.
In the aftermath of the match, Boyd’s criticism of Rangers resonated. “Celtic make things happen. Rangers hope things happen.” This phrase encapsulates the difference between the two teams, with Celtic’s proactive approach yielding dividends.
As the dust settles on this derby, attention turns to the remaining 34 league games. Can Rangers mount a comeback, or will Celtic continue to dominate? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: Celtic’s 3-0 victory has set the tone for the season.
Rangers’ response to this defeat will define their campaign. Will they learn from their mistakes and adapt, or will Celtic’s dominance continue unabated? The coming weeks and months will provide answers.
For now, Celtic’s supremacy in Scottish football remains unchallenged. Their 3-0 victory over Rangers serves as a stark reminder of the gap between the teams.
Amina Umar
Sport nation