Celtic F.C. and Rangers F.C. are two of the most famous football clubs in the world, with a rivalry that transcends the game itself. The Old Firm derby, as the match between these two teams is known, is one of the most eagerly anticipated fixtures in world football, attracting millions of viewers globally. This fierce rivalry has been shaped by a history of competition, success, and passionate fanbases, and the stats behind these encounters provide fascinating insights into their enduring legacy.

In this article, we will delve into the latest statistics surrounding Celtic F.C. vs Rangers F.C., analyzing their head-to-head record, key players, memorable moments, and more. We’ll also address some of the most common questions fans and internet users ask about this famous fixture, drawing from the latest data available.

The History of the Old Firm Rivalry

Before diving into the stats, it’s important to understand the context of this legendary rivalry. Celtic and Rangers have been competing against each other for over a century, with the first Old Firm match taking place in 1888. The rivalry has been defined not only by sporting competition but also by cultural, religious, and political factors, though the modern-day matches focus primarily on football.

Over the years, Celtic and Rangers have dominated Scottish football, winning a combined total of 106 league titles by 2023. While Celtic has had its periods of dominance, Rangers were historically the stronger of the two, particularly in the 1990s and early 2000s. However, Celtic’s recent successes, particularly under manager Brendan Rodgers in the 2010s, have shifted the balance.

Head-to-Head Record: Celtic vs Rangers

When it comes to the Old Firm derby, stats speak volumes about the fierce competition. As of December 2024, Celtic and Rangers have faced off 430 times in competitive matches, with a staggering 201 wins for Rangers, 161 wins for Celtic, and 68 draws. This shows how close the rivalry is, with both teams having their fair share of victories. However, in recent years, Celtic has edged out Rangers in terms of overall performance, particularly in domestic competitions.

League Encounters

In the Scottish Premiership, the Old Firm matches have been a key feature of the league season. Over the past decade, Celtic has enjoyed a dominant spell, winning the league in multiple consecutive seasons. However, Rangers’ resurgence under Steven Gerrard in the 2010s and their subsequent league win in the 2020-2021 season has revitalized the rivalry.

Rangers’ 2020-2021 league title victory was significant because it marked the end of Celtic’s nine-in-a-row championship streak. This result was a defining moment in the Old Firm rivalry, as it brought Rangers back to the top of Scottish football after nearly a decade of rebuilding following financial troubles and relegation.

Scottish Cup & League Cup

The Old Firm derbies are also a fixture in domestic cup competitions, such as the Scottish Cup and the Scottish League Cup. Celtic has historically had the upper hand in these competitions, with notable victories in both the Scottish Cup and League Cup. However, Rangers’ triumphs, such as their 2016 Scottish Cup victory over Hibernian (which included a win against Celtic in the earlier rounds), have added extra drama to the competition. In recent times, Celtic has been more successful in cup finals, but Rangers’ ability to knock out their rivals in key matches keeps the intensity high.

Key Stats and Players in Old Firm History

Goals Scored: When it comes to scoring goals, both Celtic and Rangers have had prolific forwards who’ve lit up the Old Firm derby. Notably, Celtic’s Henrik Larsson is the club’s all-time top scorer in Old Firm matches, with 19 goals against Rangers. On the Rangers’ side, Ally McCoist remains their top scorer in this fixture, with 27 goals.

More recently, players like Celtic’s Kyogo Furuhashi and Rangers’ Alfredo Morelos have continued the tradition of finding the net in these high-pressure matches. These strikers have been crucial in shaping recent encounters between the two sides, contributing to the excitement of the Old Firm.

Most Red Cards: Old Firm matches are often intense and sometimes violent, leading to high numbers of yellow and red cards. The stats show a fascinating picture of disciplinary issues, with both teams notorious for being involved in heated moments. Rangers’ old firm legend, Graham Souness, was one of the many players who attracted red cards during his time in the rivalry.

As of 2024, Celtic holds the record for the most red cards in Old Firm history, reflecting the passion and aggression often displayed in these matches. However, Rangers have also had their fair share of dismissals, making the derby a highly charged affair.

Highest Scoring Matches: Some Old Firm derbies are remembered not just for the drama but for the incredible number of goals scored. The highest-scoring match in recent memory came in 2012 when Celtic won 4-2 at Celtic Park. Matches like this showcase the attacking football and intense passion that these encounters are famous for.

Memorable Moments and Record-Breaking Performances

The Old Firm derby is not just about the numbers but the unforgettable moments that make it one of the most anticipated fixtures in world football.

Celtic’s Nine-in-a-Row and Rangers’ Response: Celtic’s achievement of winning nine consecutive league titles from 2011 to 2020 was a historic feat. However, this run was broken by Rangers in 2021, who clinched the Scottish Premiership title with an unbeaten record, a remarkable achievement that resonated deeply with their fans.

Rangers’ Financial Crisis and Return to Glory: Rangers’ financial troubles in 2012, which saw them liquidate and begin their journey in the Third Division, set the stage for an incredible comeback. Their return to the Scottish Premiership in 2016 was followed by their title win in 2021, which was seen as a redemption story and a massive moment in the rivalry.

How the Rivalry Has Evolved in the Modern Era

In the modern era, both Celtic and Rangers have become global brands, attracting millions of fans from across the world. With the rise of social media and digital platforms, fans can now follow the Old Firm derby from anywhere in the world. This has led to an increase in the global fanbase for both clubs, with supporters from Europe, North America, Asia, and beyond.

Tactical Battles: In recent years, the Old Firm has seen an evolution in tactics. Celtic has relied heavily on high-pressing, possession-based football, particularly under Brendan Rodgers and Ange Postecoglou. Meanwhile, Rangers, under Steven Gerrard and Giovanni van Bronckhorst, have become more focused on a pragmatic approach, with an emphasis on counter-attacking and defensive solidity.

The Importance of Fans: The Old Firm derby’s intensity is unmatched due to the sheer passion and dedication of the fans. The rivalry is felt not only on the pitch but in the stands, where both sets of supporters create an electrifying atmosphere. This atmosphere, combined with the importance of the fixture in determining domestic supremacy, ensures that every encounter is unforgettable.

FAQs

How many league matches have each team won against the other?

In league encounters, Rangers have won 126 matches, while Celtic have won 114. Out of 330 league fixtures since 1891, 90 have ended in a draw. 

What was the result of their most recent meeting?

The latest encounter was the Scottish League Cup final on December 15, 2024, which ended in a 3-3 draw after extra time. Celtic triumphed 5-4 in the penalty shootout to clinch the cup. 

How often do Celtic and Rangers face each other in a season?

Typically, they meet at least three times per season in the Scottish Premiership. Additional encounters may occur in domestic cup competitions like the Scottish Cup and the Scottish League Cup, depending on tournament progress.

In Summary

The Celtic F.C. vs Rangers F.C. rivalry is not just a football match but a battle of pride, passion, and history. With over 430 encounters between these two giants of Scottish football, the Old Firm derby remains one of the most thrilling fixtures in world sport. 

The stats and memorable moments we’ve discussed only scratch the surface of this incredible rivalry, and the next chapter is always just around the corner. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or a newcomer to Scottish football, the Celtic vs Rangers clash will always be a spectacle, providing some of the most intense and dramatic moments in football.

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