Celtic vs Rangers: Match Preview, Latest Team News and How to Watch | OneFootball

Celtic spirit returns as Old Firm stage is set

Old Firm derbies carry weight that goes beyond ninety minutes. History hangs in the air, pride sits in every challenge and emotion runs as fiercely as the wind through the Clyde. This weekend brings another Celtic vs Rangers chapter, yet there is fresh intrigue swirling around this famous rivalry. Martin O’Neill, back in the Celtic technical area after two decades, steps into a fixture that helped define his earlier era. He returns not as long term architect, but as caretaker and motivator, a steadying hand after Brendan Rodgers’ abrupt departure.

Celtic needed reassurance after a turbulent spell, adrift of Hearts and losing their rhythm. O’Neill offered clarity with his unveiling, saying he was merely “keeping the seat warm” as the club plots its next direction. Yet sentiment and steel can coexist, and his opening match delivered assurance. A 4,0 win over Falkirk settled nerves and rekindled belief in green and white hearts.

This is more than nostalgia though. It is about harnessing one of football’s most intense atmospheres and channeling it for ninety relentless minutes. The semi final of the Scottish League Cup offers stage and significance, and the return of a trusted figure could be powerful fuel.

Photo IMAGO

Rangers resurgence under Rohl

Rangers arrive buoyed by their own new direction. Danny Rohl has set about reshaping mood and method at Ibrox. Back to back wins have nudged spirits upward and brought steadiness after turbulence. The scars of early season uncertainty have not fully healed, but resilience is returning to this Rangers group.

They sit third in the Premiership, chasing identity and conviction. Rohl’s early work hints at order and discipline, and his squad heads to Hampden with belief rather than doubt. Dujon Sterling and Rabbi Matondo remain sidelined, though fitness elsewhere brings options. Danilo’s early withdrawal against Hibernian was precautionary, a reminder that small margins often shape these derbies.

Rangers know that Celtic, fuelled by narrative and noise, will come quickly. They must meet fire with structure and match emotion with calm. Old Firm derbies rarely reward hesitation.

Team battles and tactical nuance

Celtic remain without Cameron Carter Vickers, their defensive linchpin requiring Achilles surgery, and Jota continues his rehabilitation from ACL damage. Alistair Johnston’s hamstring setback adds to the challenges. Yet optimism flows through the squad. Kelechi Iheanacho and Daizen Maeda could return, while Kieran Tierney’s availability would be a timely lift.

These matches are rarely won by finesse alone. Midfields snap, full backs surge, forwards chase lost causes as if the city depends on it, because in many ways it does. Celtic enter with emotional wind behind them. Rangers bring systemic calm under new guidance. It promises a contest rich in tension and tactical edge.

There is also that intangible force that accompanies O’Neill. When he re emerged in the dugout, energy shifted. Players ran with purpose, supporters roared with remembered faith. Rangers must silence early Celtic surges, then impose their rhythm.

How to watch Celtic vs Rangers

TV channel: In the UK, the game will be televised live on Premier Sports 1, with coverage starting at 1pm GMT.

Live stream: You can also stream the game live on the Premier Sports app and website.

Celtic vs Rangers kicks off at 2pm GMT on Sunday 2 November at Hampden Park in Glasgow.

Old Firm derbies rarely slip quietly into history. Expect edge, emotion and urgency as two rejuvenated sides collide once again.