Celtic v Rangers Odds – Gers look to narrow gap at top of SPL

The Old Firm derby returns on Saturday lunchtime as Celtic host Rangers at Celtic Park, with pride and momentum firmly on the line in the Scottish Premiership.

This will be the 448th meeting between the Glasgow rivals in major competitions, with both clubs having won 171 matches apiece. With the all time record perfectly balanced, bragging rights are once again up for grabs in one of world football’s most fiercely contested fixtures.

Celtic come into the derby under mounting pressure.

Head coach Wilfried Nancy has endured a difficult start to life in Glasgow, winning just two of his first seven matches in charge and suffering a cup final defeat along the way. Results and performances have failed to win over the support, and another setback on Saturday would only intensify scrutiny on his position.

Midweek damage was done by a 2-0 defeat away to Motherwell, a result that left Celtic three points adrift of league leaders Heart of Midlothian. Confidence appears fragile, although a return to Celtic Park offers some reassurance, with the Hoops having lost just one of their nine league home games so far this season.

Saturday’s clash is the second league meeting between the sides this campaign.

Their August encounter ended in a goalless draw, while Celtic edged past Rangers after extra time in the League Cup semi final despite their rivals being reduced to ten men. The recent trend suggests fine margins, with the last three meetings all ending level and Celtic failing to win any of the last six Old Firm matches inside ninety minutes.

Rangers arrive with renewed belief following an impressive turnaround under Danny Rohl.

When Rohl took charge in October, a title challenge appeared unrealistic, with Rangers trailing Celtic by eight points and Hearts by thirteen at the top of the table.

That outlook has changed dramatically. Rangers have lost just once in eleven league matches under Rohl, winning eight and drawing two, a run that has brought them firmly back into contention.

Victory at Celtic Park would see them draw level with their city rivals and reignite hopes of a sustained push at the summit.

Away from home, Rangers hold the second best record in the division, although draws have been a recurring theme, with four of their nine league trips ending all square.

Celtic Park has also proven a difficult venue in recent seasons, with Rangers winning just one of their last nine league visits.

With both sides carrying pressure and momentum in equal measure, another tight and tense Old Firm contest appears likely. Given recent history, a draw would surprise few in Glasgow on Saturday lunchtime.