Celtic’s 3-0 defeat to Rangers at Ibrox was a sobering reminder of the challenges that can arise, even for a team that has dominated Scottish football in recent years. Brendan Rodgers’ side was far from its best, conceding goals to Ianis Hagi, Robin Propper, and Danilo in a game that underlined the importance of maintaining standards, even with a commanding lead in the Scottish Premiership.
This result was particularly striking given Celtic’s recent dominance in the Glasgow derby. It marked the first time they had lost to Rangers since May 2023, a game under Ange Postecoglou when the league title had already been secured. For Rodgers, this was only the second derby defeat across his two spells as Celtic manager, highlighting how unusual such results are for the Hoops.
Despite the loss, Celtic remain 11 points clear at the top of the league table, a testament to their consistency over the course of the season. However, the nature of the defeat at Ibrox has raised questions about complacency and performance levels, particularly in high-pressure games. Celtic were off the pace throughout the match, struggling to impose themselves and failing to respond to Rangers’ intensity and tactical setup.
In the aftermath of the defeat, right-back Alistair Johnston spoke candidly about the team’s disappointment and the need to respond quickly. “We’re just going to get back to playing the football how we expect to play,” Johnston said to The Celtic Way. “That wasn’t anywhere near the level that we set out that this Celtic group can play at. I can imagine our supporters are very disappointed with that. So now it’s up to us to have an instant rebound here and really show that we’re not going to let this dwell on us.”
Johnston’s comments reflect the mentality that has been a hallmark of Celtic’s success. The team has little time to dwell on the result, with a packed January schedule providing opportunities for redemption. Johnston sees this as a positive, stating, “That’s one of the benefits of this crazy period, having this many matches in January, is that it’s going to be a match after a match here. So, it’s time to get back on it.”
The immediate focus for Celtic is on two back-to-back home fixtures, first against St. Mirren on Sunday and then against Dundee United the following Wednesday. These games represent an ideal chance for Celtic to bounce back and demonstrate their resolve. St. Mirren, though, has proven to be a tough opponent this season, and Dundee United will be eager to test Celtic’s response.
For Brendan Rodgers and his squad, securing six points from these fixtures is not just a priority—it is a necessity. The fans will demand a reaction, and anything less than maximum points could risk eroding the confidence that has underpinned their impressive league campaign so far.
Celtic’s ability to rebound from setbacks has been a defining characteristic of their recent history, and they will need to draw on that resilience now more than ever. With their lead at the top of the table intact and their destiny firmly in their own hands, the team has every opportunity to put this loss behind them and reassert their dominance in the league. The key will be translating Johnston’s words into action on the pitch, starting this Sunday at Celtic Park.