Old Firm On A Knife-Edge As Celtic Hunt Payback At Parkhead

• Rangers’ 3-0 cup win piles pressure on Celtic ahead of the league rematch
• No away fans this season in Premiership or League Cup—Parkhead is all Celtic
• Celtic perfect in league but smarting from Europa League defeat to Ferencvaros

The Old Firm rarely needs extra spice, but this one arrives red-hot. A week on from Rangers’ commanding 3-0 cup triumph at Ibrox, Celtic return to Parkhead with a point to prove and a crowd entirely behind them, given the ongoing ban on away fans in both the Premiership and League Cup. It’s a proper test of character for Martin O’Neill’s side after a bruising Europa League loss to Ferencvaros, despite a flawless start—six wins from six—in their title defence.

For Rangers, that statement win could be the spark Derek McInnes needs after a sticky opening spell in Glasgow. Replicating that intensity in hostile territory is another matter. If you’re weighing it all up—and maybe eyeing a flutter—have a look at our best football betting sites for a sensible steer before kick-off.

Team News And Selection Calls

Celtic are without Yang Hyun-Jun due to Asian Games duty, while Alistair Johnston, Callum Osmand and Jota remain sidelined. O’Neill’s biggest headache is in goal: Sam Johnstone endured a rocky afternoon in the cup tie, yet Viljami Sinisalo hasn’t fully convinced either. Whichever way he turns, composure from the back is non-negotiable today.

Possible Celtic XI: Sinisalo; Ralston, Carter-Vickers, Trusty, Scales; McGregor, Baur; Hassan, Nygren, Duran; Hogh.

Key battles? Cameron Carter-Vickers must marshal the line after last weekend’s wobble, while Callum McGregor needs to put a stamp on midfield tempo early. With no away section, momentum could swing quickly—Celtic must start on the front foot and keep it there.

How To Watch And What’s At Stake

Kick-off is 12pm BST, Sunday 20 September at Celtic Park. UK viewers can watch on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football, with build-up from 11am BST.

Beyond pride and bragging rights, the table matters: Celtic’s five-point cushion can either stretch or shrink before the leaves have even turned. Rangers looked ruthless and direct last week; do it again here, and McInnes truly has lift-off. But if Celtic channel the noise and tidy up at the back, revenge is absolutely on the cards. Whichever way it breaks, expect a derby that crackles from minute one.

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