CELTIC FC Martin O’Neill STUNS SCOTLAND AFTER SHOCK SAVAGE TITLE RACE VERDICT ON Rangers FC’ DID YOU THINK RANGERS FC CAN WIN THE TITLE?
Scottish Premiership title race: Martin O’Neill says Rangers FC as pressure builds on leaders
Former Celtic manager Martin O’Neill says Rangers have a genuine chance of winning the Scottish Premiership title but warned the Ibrox side that any lapse in concentration could prove decisive in what is shaping up to be a dramatic finish to the season.
With four matches remaining, Heart of Midlothian sit top of the table on 70 points, one ahead of Rangers and three clear of Celtic FC.
Rangers’ recent run of results has brought them firmly back into contention, taking 13 points from the last 15 available. Celtic, meanwhile, remain within striking distance despite a less consistent campaign, while Hearts continue to set the pace at the summit.
O’Neill, who led Celtic to multiple domestic honours during his time in Glasgow, believes the title race has now become as much about composure as it is about quality.
“They can win it, yes,” O’Neill said when asked about Rangers’ chances. “But at this stage of the season, it is about handling pressure. One mistake, one poor result, and everything can change very quickly.”
He added that the psychological demands of a close title race often separate teams in the final weeks of the campaign.
“The team at the top feels it, naturally. Every game becomes heavier. The chasing sides can sometimes play with a bit more freedom, but that only helps if they keep winning.”
Hearts’ position at the top has come through consistency across the season, with 21 wins from 33 matches. However, their recent form has shown signs of vulnerability, with dropped points opening the door for both Rangers and Celtic to close the gap.
Celtic, who have also recorded 21 wins this season, remain a significant threat. Their goal tally of 59 highlights their attacking strength, although eight defeats have left them playing catch-up. Back-to-back victories have helped steady their challenge, and with four fixtures remaining, they remain firmly in contention.
O’Neill suggested that experience could yet play a role in the closing stages.
“Teams that have been in these situations before understand what is required,” he said. “But that does not guarantee anything. You still have to go out and deliver under pressure.”
The presence of three teams within three points at this stage is relatively rare and has added to the sense of anticipation across the league. Each of the contenders faces a run-in where every match carries significant weight, not only in terms of points but also momentum.
For Hearts, the challenge is clear. Maintain their position and manage the expectations that come with leading the table. Their advantage is narrow, and any slip could quickly alter the standings.
Rangers know that their fate may depend on both their own results and those of others. Winning all four remaining matches would give them a strong chance, but they are likely to need at least one of their rivals to drop points.
Celtic’s situation is similarly straightforward. They must be close to perfect while hoping results elsewhere work in their favour. Given their attacking capabilities, they remain capable of producing the kind of run that could turn the title race on its head.
Supporters from all three clubs have reacted strongly to the latest developments and O’Neill’s comments.
Among Rangers fans, there is growing optimism that their team’s late surge could carry them to the title. Many point to current form as a decisive factor, with confidence building after a series of strong performances.
Celtic supporters, however, remain confident in their team’s ability to respond under pressure. Having experienced title run-ins in recent seasons, there is belief that their squad has the resilience required to deliver when it matters most.
Hearts fans, meanwhile, continue to back their side’s consistency throughout the campaign. While much of the external focus has been on the Glasgow clubs, there is a sense that Hearts have earned their position and are capable of seeing the job through.
O’Neill’s comments have added further intrigue to an already compelling race, highlighting the fine margins that often define title outcomes.
“At this point, nobody can afford to relax,” he said. “It is about staying focused right to the very end.”
With four games left and three teams separated by just three points, the Scottish Premiership title remains firmly in the balance. Each round of fixtures is likely to bring further twists, and the destination of the trophy may not be decided until the final day of the season.
