The Old Firm derby between Celtic F.C. and Rangers F.C. is one of the fiercest and most historic football rivalries in the world. The two clubs, both based in Glasgow, Scotland, have been competing for dominance in Scottish football for over a century. This article delves into the statistics, history, and performances of these two legendary clubs in their head-to-head encounters, analyzing everything from past results to player performances in this high-octane rivalry.
Introduction to the Old Firm Rivalry
Before we dive into the match stats, it’s essential to understand what makes the Celtic vs Rangers encounters so iconic. The Old Firm rivalry goes beyond just football; it is a clash of cultures, history, and intense fan passion. The rivalry traces its roots back to the late 19th century, when the two clubs were founded in the working-class areas of Glasgow. Celtic, established in 1888, was originally seen as the club for the Irish Catholic immigrant community, while Rangers, founded in 1872, traditionally had a Protestant and Unionist following.
These deep-rooted social and political divides have made the Old Firm derby more than just a football match—it’s a cultural phenomenon that encapsulates issues of religion, identity, and politics. Over the years, this intensity has only increased, and their matches are now some of the most watched football games globally.
Historical Head-to-Head: Celtic vs Rangers
The all-time head-to-head record between Celtic and Rangers is a testament to their long-standing rivalry. The two clubs have faced each other over 400 times, with Rangers traditionally holding the upper hand in terms of total wins, but Celtic has closed the gap significantly in recent decades.
All-Time Record (As of 2025)
Total Matches Played: Over 400
Rangers Wins: 169
Celtic Wins: 173
Draws: 62
While Rangers once dominated the fixture, Celtic’s resurgence in the 21st century has seen them edge ahead in terms of total victories. This shift in the balance of power has contributed to the growing intensity of the rivalry in recent years, as both teams now vie for supremacy not only in Scotland but also in European competitions.
Celtic’s Strengths in the Old Firm
Celtic has been known for its attacking style and high-intensity football in recent seasons, which has played a major part in their success against Rangers. Under the management of Brendan Rodgers (who first took the reins in 2016), Celtic became a dominant force in Scottish football, securing multiple domestic trebles, including a historic unbeaten season in 2016-2017.
In recent years, Celtic has been able to rely on a core of talented players who excel in these high-pressure fixtures. Players like Callum McGregor, James Forrest, and Odsonne Édouard have delivered crucial performances in these matches, and Celtic fans have consistently shown their unwavering support for the team.
Celtic’s performance in these games tends to focus on quick, flowing football with the ability to break down opposition defenses. Statistically, they have proven to be lethal in the attacking third, boasting some of the highest goals-per-game averages in these encounters.
Key Celtic Stats in Recent Years
Goals Scored per Match: 2.5
Goals Conceded per Match: 1.2
Clean Sheets: 9
Top Scorer in Old Firm Matches: Leigh Griffiths (8 goals)
The attacking prowess displayed by Celtic, particularly in home matches at Parkhead, is often the key to their success in the Old Firm. Celtic has earned a reputation for producing some memorable moments in this derby, with stunning goals and dramatic late winners.
Rangers’ Resilience and Strengths
Rangers F.C., traditionally the more successful club in terms of league titles (a record 55 Scottish league titles as of 2024), has always been known for its strong defense and organized tactical approach. The club endured some difficult years following their financial troubles and demotion to the Third Division in 2012, but since the appointment of Steven Gerrard as manager in 2018, Rangers have rebounded in spectacular fashion.
Under Gerrard’s guidance, Rangers won their first league title in 10 years in the 2020-2021 season, a title-winning campaign that was unbeaten in the league. Rangers’ ability to perform in big matches, especially against Celtic, was a major factor in their success that season.
Rangers have historically been strong in physical duels and rely on discipline and tactical discipline to break down teams. Their style is often characterized by quick counter-attacks, high pressing, and a compact defensive structure. Rangers’ ability to defend leads and be clinical in the final third makes them a dangerous opponent in the Old Firm.
Key Rangers Stats in Recent Years
Goals Scored per Match: 1.9
Goals Conceded per Match: 1.0
Clean Sheets: 12
Top Scorer in Old Firm Matches: Alfredo Morelos (9 goals)
One of Rangers’ strengths in recent years has been their defensive organization. The backline, featuring players like James Tavernier and Connor Goldson, has been solid and difficult to break down. Additionally, the club’s midfielders, including Steven Davis and Ryan Jack, provide stability and composure in high-pressure moments.
Key Players to Watch: Celtic vs Rangers
Every Old Firm match features players who are capable of changing the game with a single moment of brilliance. From clinical finishers to creative playmakers, here are some of the key players who have been involved in recent Old Firm derbies.
Celtic
Odsonne Édouard: A clinical striker with an eye for goal, Édouard has often been Celtic’s go-to man in Old Firm derbies. His ability to find space in the box and finish with both feet makes him a dangerous weapon.
Callum McGregor: A midfield general, McGregor’s leadership and passing range make him a key figure in Celtic’s ability to dominate possession and control the game.
James Forrest: A pacy winger, Forrest has often been the provider of assists in these high-intensity encounters. His dribbling and crossing ability make him a constant threat on the right flank.
Rangers
Alfredo Morelos: Rangers’ main striker, Morelos, has a proven track record in Old Firm matches. His physicality, aerial prowess, and clinical finishing make him one of the top goal-scorers in this fixture.
James Tavernier: As Rangers’ captain, Tavernier plays a vital role in both attack and defense. His leadership on the pitch and ability to deliver dangerous set-pieces have been crucial in past encounters.
Steven Davis: A veteran in the middle of the park, Davis has the experience to dictate the tempo of the game and break up Celtic’s attacking play.
The Impact of Home Advantage
In many football rivalries, home advantage can play a huge role in determining the outcome, and the Old Firm derby is no exception. Celtic’s Parkhead and Rangers’ Ibrox Stadium have both been known for their passionate and electric atmospheres, often providing their respective teams with an extra boost.
Over the years, Celtic has had a solid record at Parkhead, while Rangers have historically performed better at home. However, recent years have shown that the advantage may not be as significant as it once was, as both clubs have shown they can win in the opponent’s territory.
Recent Home/Away Form
Celtic at Home: 10 wins, 2 losses
Rangers at Home: 8 wins, 2 losses
These stats show that while home advantage still plays a role, both teams have managed to find success away from home in recent seasons.
Memorable Moments in the Old Firm Rivalry
Over the years, the Old Firm has produced some unforgettable moments, from controversial decisions to stunning goals. Here are a few of the most iconic moments:
Celtic’s 5-1 Victory (2000): One of the most significant victories for Celtic came in 2000 when they defeated Rangers 5-1 in a thrilling encounter at Parkhead. Goals from players like Henrik Larsson and Chris Sutton made this a historic win.
Rangers’ 3-2 Victory in 2021: In a crucial clash during the 2020-2021 season, Rangers defeated Celtic 3-2 at Parkhead, a victory that helped them secure the league title after a 10-year wait.
The ‘Bobby Madden’ Controversy (2017): A controversial referee decision in a 2-1 Celtic victory sparked outrage, with some claiming the referee had incorrectly awarded a penalty to Celtic. This moment encapsulates the heated emotions that often accompany these games.
FAQs
What is the all-time head-to-head record between Celtic and Rangers?
As of January 2025, Celtic and Rangers have faced each other 330 times in league competitions since 1891. Rangers lead with 126 wins, Celtic have 114 victories, and 90 matches have ended in draws.
How have Celtic and Rangers performed in recent encounters?
In their last five meetings, Celtic have secured three wins, one draw, and one loss against Rangers. Notably, Celtic won 3-0 at home on September 1, 2024, and 2-1 on May 11, 2024. Rangers’ most recent victory was a 3-0 win at Ibrox on January 2, 2025.
What is the average number of goals scored in Old Firm derbies?
Historically, matches between Celtic and Rangers average 2.74 goals per game. This statistic reflects the attacking nature and competitive spirit of these fixtures.
How do Celtic and Rangers compare in terms of major trophies won?
As of January 2025, Celtic have won 119 major trophies, while Rangers have secured 118. This narrow margin underscores the intense competition between the two clubs over the years.
What is the record for the largest margin of victory in an Old Firm derby?
The most significant win in an Old Firm derby occurred on September 15, 1895, when Celtic defeated Rangers 7-1. This match remains a historic highlight in the rivalry.
In Summary
The Old Firm rivalry between Celtic and Rangers continues to captivate football fans worldwide. As the two clubs face off in the latest chapter of this historic battle, the stats and performances from previous encounters provide a rich context for understanding the intense competition between these two Glasgow giants.
Whether it’s the attacking flair of Celtic or the tactical discipline of Rangers, one thing is certain—every Old Firm match is filled with drama, excitement, and history in the making. With both clubs continually evolving and improving, the rivalry is set to stay at the heart of Scottish football for years to come.
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