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Why is the Celtic vs Rangers rivalry so intense? The Celtic vs Rangers rivalry, known as the Old Firm derby, is one of the most heated and historic in football. This fierce competition dates back to 1888 and goes beyond the sport, touching on deep-rooted themes of national identity, politics, and religion. Celtic fans often identify as Irish-Scots and Catholic, while Rangers supporters typically align as native Scots or Ulster Scots and Protestant. These divisions fuel the rivalry, making each match a high-stakes event. With both clubs boasting nearly equal trophy counts and a head-to-head record that’s neck and neck, every game is a battle for supremacy.
Key Takeaways:
- The Old Firm derby between Celtic and Rangers is a historic and intense football rivalry, rooted in deep religious and political divisions, with a legacy that captivates fans worldwide.
- The rivalry has shaped Scottish football, drawing global attention and showcasing the complex history and identity of Glasgow, making it one of the most enduring and intense football rivalries in history.
Origins of the Term "Old Firm"
The Celtic vs Rangers rivalry, known as the Old Firm derby, is one of the most intense and historic football rivalries in the world. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this legendary match-up.
- The term "Old Firm" was first used in the early 20th century. Commentators described the two teams as "like two old, firm friends" during an early meeting.
Historical Context
Understanding the roots of this rivalry requires a look back at its long history.
- Celtic and Rangers have been playing each other since 1888. Their first competitive meeting was in the 1888-89 Glasgow Cup.
Religious and Political Divisions
The rivalry extends beyond football, touching on deeper themes of national identity, politics, and religion.
- Rangers supporters traditionally align as native Scots or Ulster Scots, identifying as Protestant and Loyalist. Celtic fans tend to be Irish-Scots and Catholic, often identifying as Republican.
Trophy Count
Both clubs have a significant number of titles in various competitions.
- Rangers have 118 major honours, while Celtic have 117. The difference is razor-thin.
Head-to-Head Record
The sheer number of matches played between these two teams is staggering.
- As of May 25, 2024, Celtic and Rangers have met 441 times in major competitions. Both teams have won 169 matches each, with 103 draws.
League Matches
Their encounters in the Scottish League are particularly noteworthy.
- Rangers have won 127 league matches against Celtic, while Celtic have won 114. Out of 330 league fixtures since 1891, 90 ended in a draw.
Scottish Cup
The Scottish Cup has seen some intense battles between these two giants.
- Celtic have a slight edge in the Scottish Cup, with 26 wins compared to Rangers' 18. Ten of the 54 matches have ended in a draw.
League Cup
The League Cup matches are just as fiercely contested.
- Celtic narrowly lead with 25 wins in the League Cup, while Rangers have 24. Only two matches have ended without a clear victor.
Glasgow Cup
Though the Glasgow Cup is now defunct, it played a significant role in the rivalry.
- Rangers won 36 matches out of 79 in the Glasgow Cup, while Celtic won 23. Twenty matches ended in a draw.
Historic Wins
Some victories are etched in the memories of fans forever.
- Celtic recorded a 7-1 victory in the 1957 Scottish League Cup and a 5-0 win in the 2018 Scottish Premiership against Rangers.
Rangers' Comeback
Rangers' journey back to the top tier of Scottish football is a story of resilience.
- Rangers had to climb through the lower divisions to rejoin the Scottish Premiership for the 2016-17 season. During this period, only two cup semi-finals were played between the clubs, with Celtic winning all four league titles by significant margins.
Fan Culture
The fan culture surrounding the Old Firm derbies is intense and unique.
- Rangers fans often wave the Union Jack, while Celtic supporters display the Irish tricolour. This cultural divide adds to the rivalry's complexity.
Player Perspectives
Former players have described the Old Firm derbies as unparalleled in intensity.
- Henrik Larsson and Brian Laudrup have noted that the atmosphere during these matches was unmatched, even compared to El Clasico.
Financial Collapse
The financial collapse of Rangers in 2012 had a significant impact on the rivalry.
- Some Celtic fans questioned whether the Old Firm derby still existed after Rangers' financial collapse. However, Rangers' rebirth and continued use of the term "Old Firm" have maintained the rivalry's status.
Trophy Displays
Both clubs have impressive trophy cabinets, but some achievements stand out.
- While Rangers have a slight edge in major honours (117 vs 116), Celtic's European Cup win in 1967 is a significant achievement. Celtic became the first British team to win the European Cup and also achieved a Treble that year.
UEFA Cup Winners' Cup
Rangers have their own European success to boast about.
- Rangers won the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup in 1972, a title that is no longer available since its dissolution in 1999.
Recent Matches
Recent encounters between Celtic and Rangers continue to be fiercely contested.
- The 2024 match at Ibrox ended 3-3, while the 2023 match also ended in a draw. The 2022 match at Celtic Park ended 1-1.
Attendance Records
Old Firm derbies often attract large crowds, showcasing their popularity.
- The 2022 match at Celtic Park had an attendance of 58,247, one of the highest in recent history.
Impact on Scottish Football
The Old Firm derby significantly impacts Scottish football, drawing global attention.
- It is one of the most-watched and most-discussed matches globally, rivalling high-profile derbies like El Clasico and De Klassieker.
Legacy and Cultural Significance
The Old Firm derby is more than just a football match; it's a cultural phenomenon.
- The rivalry reflects the complex history and identity of Glasgow, captivating fans worldwide and making it one of the most enduring and intense football rivalries in history.
The Legacy of the Old Firm Derby
The Celtic vs Rangers rivalry, known as the Old Firm derby, stands as one of football's most intense and historic match-ups. With roots dating back to 1888, this rivalry goes beyond the pitch, touching on themes of national identity, politics, and religion. Both clubs boast an impressive number of titles, with Rangers holding 118 major honors and Celtic close behind with 117. The head-to-head record is equally tight, showcasing the fierce competition between these two giants.
From the passionate fan culture to the historic wins and unforgettable matches, the Old Firm derby remains a cornerstone of Scottish football. Its impact is felt not just in Glasgow but around the world, drawing in fans and creating unforgettable moments. The legacy of this rivalry continues to captivate and inspire, making it a truly unique and enduring spectacle in the world of sports.
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