The Scottish Cup Final is nearly upon us. It’s the first that has been contested between Celtic and Rangers for 22 years.
Saturday’s match promises to be an epic occasion. A fifty-fifty ticket split inside a 50,000-capacity Hampden Park will ensure a fiery, vibrant atmosphere, for starters.
Both teams will be going for it big time, too. For Celtic it’s a chance to secure a league and cup double – as well as an undefeated derby season.
For Rangers, it’s a last opportunity to salvage positivity from another campaign that has left them largely gutted.
One pundit, Michael Stewart reckons that the Bhoys hold the psychological advantage heading into this one and that this could be a key factor in determining who comes out on top – as well as the midfield battle.
Michael Stewart’s verdict on Celtic vs Rangers final
Speaking to BBC Scotland, the former Hibs and Hearts man said: “Celtic’s strongest midfield is back together. When those three are firing, it causes so many problems for the opposition – particularly Rangers.
“There is a lot of debate among Rangers fans about whether they want John Lundstram to be starting. Whether he is there or not, who else will be? They have got so many injury issues.
“Rangers have been grinding to a halt, while for Celtic, things seem to be coming together ahead of the cup final. The middle of the park is a big concern for Rangers because Celtic are full strength in there.
“The recent matches will be playing on Rangers’ mind. The performance at Ibrox in the 3-3 draw got into their heads I think. Celtic were very good and then they followed it up with a win at home a few weeks later.
“Celtic have not lost a derby this season. If the game goes down to fine margins, maybe that psychological advantage gives Celtic the edge. It will not be beneficial to Rangers in any way.”
Celtic are favourites for a reason
Celtic’s undefeated streak against Rangers this term can’t be underrated – especially when three of them have been played with Philippe Clement installed as manager.
Yes, none of the matches were blowaway wins by a big margin, but Celtic have shown they can cope with the pressure of the occasion far better than their rivals.
That doesn’t mean it’ll be an easy 90 minutes – or more – for the Bhoys on Saturday, but it does mean they are rightly considered favourites.
The Celtic players will have no fear going into this one. If Callum McGregor and company can set a tone in the match and take control in the early stages it’s going to be very difficult for Rangers to match the Bhoys, again.