Team News: Rangers Vs Celtic Starting XI

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Post on Jan 03, 2025

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Team News: Rangers vs Celtic Starting XI – Old Firm Derby Preview

The Old Firm derby. Just the words themselves conjure images of frenzied crowds, thunderous tackles, and moments of breathtaking brilliance. Rangers and Celtic, two titans of Scottish football, are set to clash once more, and the anticipation is palpable. This preview delves deep into the expected starting XIs for both sides, analyzing potential team selections, key injuries, and tactical considerations that could shape this monumental encounter.

Rangers Predicted Starting XI and Tactical Analysis

Manager Michael Beale faces a crucial decision regarding his team selection. Recent performances have shown both strengths and vulnerabilities, leaving room for tactical tweaks and potential surprises. Let's break down a likely starting XI and the reasoning behind it:

Predicted Formation: 4-3-3

Predicted Starting XI:

• Goalkeeper: Allan McGregor – His experience and commanding presence in goal remain vital.
• Defenders: James Tavernier (RB), Connor Goldson (CB), John Souttar (CB), Borna Barišić (LB) – A solid defensive unit, though the fitness of Souttar will be crucial. Barišić's attacking contributions down the left flank are key.
• Midfielders: John Lundstram (CDM), Nicolas Raskin (CM), Todd Cantwell (CM) – Lundstram provides defensive stability, while Raskin and Cantwell offer a balance of creativity and energy in the middle.
• Forwards: Abdallah Sima (RW), Cyriel Dessers (ST), Fashion Sakala (LW) – Beale might opt for pace and directness on the wings with Sima and Sakala, supporting the more central striking presence of Dessers.

Tactical Considerations:

Beale’s approach is likely to emphasize a high press, aiming to disrupt Celtic's build-up play from the back. The midfield trio will be tasked with winning the midfield battle, providing both defensive cover and attacking impetus. The wingers' pace will be crucial in exploiting any space left by Celtic's defense on the counter-attack. The effectiveness of this strategy heavily depends on the fitness and form of key players like Souttar and Cantwell. Any injury or dip in form could force Beale into a tactical rethink.

Key Players and Potential Injuries for Rangers

• John Souttar: His fitness is a major concern. His return to the starting XI would provide a significant boost to the Rangers defense. If he's unavailable, Leon King is likely to step in.
• Todd Cantwell: His creative flair and ability to unlock defenses are crucial. If unavailable, Malik Tillman could be a viable replacement.
• Allan McGregor: The veteran goalkeeper's experience and leadership are invaluable. Robby McCrorie is a capable backup but lacks McGregor's vast experience in Old Firm clashes.

Celtic Predicted Starting XI and Tactical Analysis

Ange Postecoglou's Celtic side is known for its fluid, attacking style of play. They'll likely aim to dominate possession and create numerous scoring opportunities.

Predicted Formation: 4-3-3

Predicted Starting XI:

• Goalkeeper: Joe Hart – The experienced keeper provides a solid presence between the posts.
• Defenders: Anthony Ralston (RB), Cameron Carter-Vickers (CB), Carl Starfelt (CB), Greg Taylor (LB) – A relatively consistent back four, providing a balance of defensive solidity and attacking support.
• Midfielders: Callum McGregor (CDM), Matt O'Riley (CM), Reo Hatate (CM) – McGregor anchors the midfield, shielding the defense and initiating attacks. O'Riley and Hatate provide creativity and attacking thrust.
• Forwards: Liel Abada (RW), Kyogo Furuhashi (ST), Daizen Maeda (LW) – The front three's pace and movement are vital to Celtic's attacking approach. Their ability to press high and win back possession is crucial.

Tactical Considerations:

Postecoglou’s emphasis on high pressing and quick transitions will likely dictate Celtic's game plan. The midfielders' ability to control possession and dictate the tempo will be critical. The front three will be key in stretching the Rangers defense and creating opportunities. Celtic's success hinges on their ability to maintain possession, play at a high tempo, and capitalize on any defensive errors by Rangers.

Key Players and Potential Injuries for Celtic

• Kyogo Furuhashi: The striker's form is crucial to Celtic's attacking threat. His goalscoring ability is vital to their chances of victory. A potential injury would be a major blow.
• Cameron Carter-Vickers: His defensive prowess and leadership at the back are essential. Any injury or suspension would weaken the defense significantly.
• Callum McGregor: The captain's leadership and influence in midfield are irreplaceable. His control of the game is fundamental to Celtic's strategy.

The Battle in the Midfield and Key Tactical Battles

The midfield battle will be the key to this match. Rangers’ midfield trio will need to disrupt Celtic's passing rhythm and win back possession. The Celtic midfielders, meanwhile, must control the game's tempo and supply the front three with ammunition. The battle between Lundstram and McGregor will be particularly crucial, with both players tasked with providing defensive solidity and dictating the flow of the game. The wide players' ability to deliver crosses will also be vital, especially considering the aerial prowess of both teams' strikers.

Conclusion: A Derby of High Stakes

The Rangers vs. Celtic derby promises to be a captivating encounter. Both teams boast talented squads and tactical flexibility. The predicted starting XIs offer a glimpse into the potential strategies, but unforeseen injuries or tactical shifts could dramatically alter the match's narrative. The outcome will hinge on individual brilliance, tactical execution, and the relentless intensity characteristic of this historic rivalry. Ultimately, the Old Firm derby is a clash of styles, a test of wills, and a spectacle that will keep fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.