Old Firm Derby Takes a Back Seat to Rangers’ Europa League Ambitions – But Maeda vs. Tavernier Could Decide It

It’s a rare occasion when an Old Firm derby isn’t the biggest game on Rangers’ fixture list, but with a European quarter-final spot at stake, the blue half of Glasgow may have their priorities elsewhere—at least for now. Barry Ferguson’s side faces a crucial second-leg tie against Fenerbahce in the Europa League before turning their attention to Celtic at Parkhead.

Despite the rivalry’s significance, few Old Firm matches will have felt as secondary to Rangers fans as the upcoming one. While every derby matters, there is no question that securing progression in Europe takes precedence over the league fixture, given Celtic’s commanding 13-point lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership.

Barry Ferguson’s Tactical Masterclass and New Challenge

Since stepping in as Rangers’ interim boss, Barry Ferguson has shown a willingness to adjust tactics for different opponents. His approach against Fenerbahce in the first leg was hailed as a masterclass, and he will hope to carry that momentum into his first Old Firm derby as manager.

Ferguson’s tactical tweaks have been notable, particularly his decision to move captain James Tavernier into a central defensive role in recent matches. The switch worked well in Europe, where Rangers earned a crucial 3-1 victory in Turkey, but will it be effective against Celtic’s fast and direct attacking play?

Key Battle: James Tavernier vs. Daizen Maeda

A major subplot in this clash will be the duel between James Tavernier and Celtic’s in-form striker Daizen Maeda. With Kyogo Furuhashi absent, Maeda has stepped up in recent weeks, proving himself a clinical and intelligent forward who can stretch defenses with his pace.

Ironically, Rangers were once urged to sign Maeda when he was still playing in Japan. Former Rangers captain Craig Moore revealed that the club’s then-sporting director, Ross Wilson, dismissed the idea because he didn’t want Rangers to be seen as copying Celtic’s recruitment from the J-League. Now, Maeda has become one of Celtic’s most dangerous players, and stopping him will be crucial for Rangers.

James Tavernier, who has played at right-back for most of his Rangers career, may line up as a center-half once again, especially with Dujon Sterling’s return to fitness. If Ferguson sticks with the system that worked in Turkey, Tavernier could be tasked with neutralizing Maeda’s pace and movement in a deeper role rather than engaging him out wide.

Tavernier himself has acknowledged the change and seems open to a long-term transition to center-back. Speaking about Ferguson’s tactical shift, he said:

“He obviously just simplified it and last Thursday in the first leg he wasn’t scared to change the formation. We had maybe 24 hours to work on it and he’s kept it really simple. The lads have really taken on the information and really taken on what it means to play for this club.”

“I actually enjoyed the change of formation. I played most of my youth team days at center-back. It’s obviously a position that I can see myself playing in going forward because it might help me to prolong my career.”

However, how comfortable he feels at full-time on Sunday could be an entirely different matter.

Rangers’ Europa League Focus: Can They Avoid a European Hangover?

Before Rangers even step onto the Parkhead pitch, they have to navigate an intense second-leg clash with Fenerbahce at Ibrox. Holding a 3-1 lead from the first leg, Ferguson has called for a ruthless performance to ensure his side progresses to the quarter-finals.

Ferguson has been vocal about his players needing to be more aggressive and not just sit back on their lead. The interim boss told the media:

“I’ve told my Rangers players they are too NICE—it stops when Fenerbahce come to Ibrox.”

A European run would be a massive achievement for Rangers, but the question remains whether they will be physically and mentally drained heading into Sunday’s derby. The last thing Ferguson wants is for his team to suffer from a European hangover, especially against a Celtic side that will be fully rested.

Celtic’s Perspective: Brendan Rodgers Looks to Regain Control

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has acknowledged that Rangers’ tactical setup was the key factor in their 3-0 win in the last derby at Ibrox. He admitted that Rangers “stole” Celtic’s usual game plan and used it against them effectively.

This time around, Rodgers will be expecting a different challenge, especially with Ferguson in charge. Celtic’s midfield will be key, as players like Matt O’Riley and Callum McGregor will look to dictate the tempo and exploit any fatigue in Rangers’ squad.

Celtic have also received positive team news ahead of the derby, with key players like Reo Hatate, Liel Abada, and Jota all in contention to return. However, veteran winger James Forrest remains sidelined due to a muscle injury.

Match Officials and Potential Controversy

As always, the referee selection for the Old Firm derby has sparked debate. The Scottish Football Association has appointed Steven McLean as the match official, with John Beaton overseeing VAR.

Controversial decisions are almost inevitable in a fixture of this magnitude, and both sets of fans will be scrutinizing every call. Given how tight recent derbies have been, a major refereeing decision could be the difference-maker.

The Bigger Picture: What This Old Firm Means for the Season

While the title race is all but over with Celtic holding a massive lead, this game still carries significance. For Celtic, a win would virtually guarantee another league title, further demoralizing their biggest rivals.

For Rangers, a victory would be more about pride and momentum. If they can pull off a famous win at Parkhead while also progressing in Europe, it could set the stage for a strong end to the season.

Final Thoughts: Tactical Chess Match Awaits

With both teams approaching this fixture in different mindsets, Sunday’s Old Firm derby promises to be a fascinating tactical battle. Will Ferguson’s defensive setup and Tavernier’s new role be enough to contain Celtic’s attack? Or will Brendan Rodgers’ side exploit Rangers’ European fatigue and press home their advantage?

Regardless of where it sits on Rangers’ priority list, an Old Firm derby always carries emotion, intensity, and controversy. And when the dust settles, the result could shape the narratives surrounding both clubs for the remainder of the season.