For the first time, Merson and Carragher predict same Celtic-Rangers scoreline

In a surprising moment of agreement, football pundits Paul Merson and Jamie Carragher have both predicted the same outcome for Celtic in Sunday’s Old Firm derby despite the match being played at Ibrox, Rangers’ home ground.

This marks the first time the outspoken duo have made the same scoreline prediction for a Celtic vs Rangers clash, adding another layer of intrigue ahead of one of the most crucial fixtures in the Scottish Premiership season.

“I know it’s at Ibrox,” said Merson during a segment on Sky Sports, “but Celtic have the momentum. They’ve been composed, clinical, and just look more complete right now. I’m going for a 2-0 away win.”

Carragher, often more conservative in his predictions, backed Merson’s call.

“Celtic are playing with real control,” Carragher said. “Even in a hostile environment like Ibrox, I think they’ll manage the occasion and get the job done. 2-0 Celtic.”

Title Race on the Line

With the Premiership title hanging in the balance, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Celtic currently sit far ahead of Rangers in the table, and a victory at Ibrox would put them firmly in control heading into the final fixtures of the season.

For Rangers, this match is effectively must-win. A defeat at home would leave them chasing not just points but momentum something Celtic seem to be building with each performance.

“This is where champions show up,” Merson added. “And right now, Celtic look like the team more likely to finish the job.”

Ibrox Factor Downplayed

Normally, playing at Ibrox would be seen as a major advantage for Rangers. The intense atmosphere, loyal support, and familiarity of home turf often give them an extra edge. But Carragher argued that Celtic’s experience and composure make them capable of silencing the crowd early.

“If Celtic score first, the pressure shifts massively,” Carragher said. “They’ve shown they can handle tough environments. I don’t think they’ll be intimidated.”

Celtic’s Game Plan

Both pundits pointed to Celtic’s midfield dominance and defensive organization as key reasons for their prediction. With players like Callum McGregor and Matt O’Riley controlling the tempo, and a backline that has tightened up significantly, the Hoops look well-balanced heading into the clash.

Up front, maeda remains a major threat, and Carragher believes he could be decisive.

“He only needs one chance,” Carragher said. “That’s what makes him dangerous, even at Ibrox.”

Fan Reaction Mixed

As expected, the shared prediction has caused a stir among fans of both sides. Some Celtic supporters have welcomed the confidence, while others remain cautious wary of the unpredictability of Old Firm fixtures.

Rangers fans, on the other hand, have pushed back hard against the forecast.

“It’s our house,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). “No way we’re losing 2-0 at Ibrox.”

Another wrote: “Let the pundits talk. We’ll see what happens on the pitch.”

A Clash That Could Define the Season

With everything on the line, this Old Firm derby at Ibrox could go down as one of the defining matches of the 2024/25 campaign. Whether Merson and Carragher’s rare agreement proves insightful or misguided remains to be seen.