Celtic faces defensive woes in Old Firm derby against Rangers

On March 16, 2025, the Old Firm derby is set to be a high-stakes clash in Scotland, as Celtic and Rangers prepare to face each other. Historically, the rivalry has been fierce, with nearly 450 encounters over the past 137 years. This season, Celtic is looking to maintain their significant lead at the top of the Premiership, being 13 points ahead of their rivals, while they are also on course for another treble. However, both teams have experienced tightly contested recent matchups, heightening the stakes for this upcoming game. Celtic's recent form has raised concerns, especially regarding their defensive record against Rangers. In their last three encounters, they have struggled significantly, conceding three goals in each match. A notable example was the previous meeting, where Celtic lost 3-0 at Ibrox, a performance that left their manager Brendan Rodgers reflecting on their defensive lapses. The last few derbies have shown Rangers successfully imposing their game plan on Celtic, making them formidable opponents despite Celtic's overall strength. The pressure on both managers is immense as they prepare their teams. Brendan Rodgers has been critical of his side's defensive errors, acknowledging the need for improvement if they wish to secure a favorable outcome against Rangers. He pointed out that these lapses in concentration led to disappointing goals during the matches. Despite these challenges, Rodgers emphasized the necessity for his squad to step up especially in the absence of their captain, Callum McGregor, who plays a crucial role in orchestrating their attack. As the teams gear up for the derby, the implications of this match extend beyond just league standings, as it also showcases tactics, determination, and the intense passion associated with this historic rivalry. The match is crucial for both clubs—not just for the immediate league implications but also as part of their ongoing narrative of dominance in Scottish football. With the rivalry's rich history and the stakes at an all-time high, fans are eagerly anticipating a thrilling battle on Sunday.