Old Firm Derby Ends in First Goalless Draw Since 2017
The latest chapter of the Old Firm rivalry was played out at Ibrox, and to the frustration of more than 50,000 fans in the stands, it ended without a single goal. Rangers and Celtic went head-to-head in what should have been a fiery clash, but instead, the game descended into a slow, nervy, and at times painful watch. This was the first goalless Old Firm since 2017, and for those who witnessed it, many felt it was one of the poorest meetings in years.
Rangers, under Russell Martin, are still looking for their first Premiership win of the season. After four matches, they have drawn every one, and that now represents their worst start to a league campaign in 42 years. The home supporters were desperate for a breakthrough, and for a moment, they thought they had it when John Souttar powered in a header. But the joy was short-lived—the goal was ruled out by VAR for offside, sparking loud frustration around the ground.
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For Celtic, who came in unbeaten and sitting top of the table, this was another performance that raised concerns. Brendan Rodgers’ side had been criticized after flat displays in the Champions League qualifiers, and unfortunately, little improvement was shown here. Remarkably, they didn’t register a single shot in the first half. Even when opportunities came later, they looked toothless, with new signings unable to provide the spark. Daizen Maeda and Reo Hatate, once pivotal players, looked shadows of themselves.
Neither goalkeeper had much to do. Jack Butland in the Rangers net faced just two shots on target, and Kasper Schmeichel for Celtic didn’t have to make a single save. The xG statistics summed it up—just 0.15 for Rangers and 0.17 for Celtic. In other words, there was almost no real danger of a goal being scored across the 90 minutes.
The fans made their feelings clear. A smattering of boos could be heard at full-time, possibly from both sets of supporters. The derby, usually brimming with drama and intensity, felt flat and lacking in quality.
Still, both managers will take something from it. Rangers at least avoided another defeat after their bruising loss to Club Brugge in Europe, and Martin can point to better defensive organization. Celtic, meanwhile, remain unbeaten and have yet to concede a goal in the Premiership this season. That record is a small comfort, but the bigger worry is the obvious decline in attacking threat.
So, after all the build-up, the Old Firm derby delivered more frustration than excitement. Rangers are left still searching for their first league win, while Celtic stay top but under growing pressure to rediscover their rhythm. For both clubs, the closing hours of the transfer window may prove crucial if they want to raise the level and give fans something better than this forgettable stalemate.
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