Sun Aug 31 10:40:00 UTC 2025: **Old Firm Derby Kicks Off with New Faces and High Stakes**
**Ibrox, Glasgow -** The first Old Firm derby of the 2025/2026 season is underway at Ibrox Stadium, with both Rangers and Celtic fielding new signings amidst a backdrop of European disappointment and transfer speculation.
Rangers manager Russell Martin has shaken up his lineup following a shambolic Champions League play-off exit to Brugge and a disappointing draw against St Mirren. New signing Bojan Miovski starts up front, while Nico Raskin is notably absent from the squad, fueling rumors of an exit.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has also made changes. New winger Michel-Ange Balikwisha goes straight into the starting XI for his debut. Star striker Adam Idah is not in the squad with a transfer to Swansea City seemingly imminent. Rodgers hopes Balikwisha will bring needed “creativity and unpredictability” to the Celtic attack.
The atmosphere at Ibrox is electric. Early moments in the game featured Rangers fans screaming for a penalty after a challenge on Miovski by Liam Scales, but the referee and VAR were unmoved. The opening minutes also saw Miovski earn a stern talking-to for a barge.
Rangers, who have drawn all three of their league games so far this season, are desperate for a win after a rocky start to the season. Manager Russell Martin said the chairman addressed the players to ensure the regime has their backing. Celtic, on the other hand, boast a perfect league record and are looking to continue their dominance in the league.
Rodgers has an impressive Old Firm record, winning 16 of 23 derbies.
With a host of new faces making their derby debuts, including multiple teenagers for Rangers, the outcome of this match is highly unpredictable. Both teams are looking to put their European woes behind them and kickstart their league campaigns with a crucial victory.
First Piper 