Celtic must expose Rangers’ shaky defence this afternoon if they are to win the second Glasgow derby of the season.
The Hoops know they can hurt their rivals all over the field, but especially in attack.
Rangers know this too, having suffered numerous heavy defeats at the hands of Celtic since 2016.
Brendan Rodgers will have his side fired up for this one. A Celtic win would see them go into the winter break six points clear of their rivals with a game in hand.
The pressure is all on Rangers, and they haven’t exactly shown they are equipped to handle it this season.
Rangers have played a game more than Celtic in the league this season. They’ve conceded 16 goals in 20 games, three more than Celtic’s defence.
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That may be a negligible difference over the course of a season, but their shaky back-line is there for all to see.
Allan McGregor is keeping Rangers close to Celtic this season. Without him, they’d more than likely be further away from their rivals.
Rangers’ defence gives up a lot of chances throughout the 90 minutes, and Celtic have players who can hurt them.
In September’s meeting, Celtic dominated Rangers from start to finish. They created umpteen goal scoring chances. and by the end a 1-0 defeat flattered Rangers.
This time, Celtic will be hoping to continue along the same manner and give McGregor another busy afternoon.
Of course, they’ll be demanding more than the one goal they mustered in the autumn, courtesy of Olivier Ntcham.
James Tavernier has endured a nightmare up against Scott Sinclair in recent years. With Sinclair coming back into some form, Tavernier should be worried this weekend.
Rangers can do some damage themselves, as Celtic’s defence is hardly perfect.
However, with Dedryck Boyata back, it’s undeniable that when he plays next to Filip Benkovic, Celtic are much more secure.
‘Good for a goal’
Celtic’s team is littered with players who are good for a goal against their biggest rivals.
Edouard, Sinclair, Callum McGregor and Ntcham all have multiple derby goals. Tom Rogic has been the thorn in Rangers side in recent times, but they’ll be without his services.
The Australian scored in all four games against Rangers last season. He won’t be playing today however, having been called up for national team duty.
It’s not like Rangers can sleep any easier however.
If Celtic turn up and play to their capability at Ibrox, they will win and win comfortably.
It’s that simple.