Scottish League Cup: Celtic upset a step too far for Rangers but it should be a full-blooded affair, says Charlie Nicholas
Sunday 1 February 2015 06:22, UK
Soccer Saturday pundit Charlie Nicholas believes Rangers lack the quality to upset Celtic on Sunday but insists it will be an entertaining affair.
The Old Firm rivalry will be renewed for the first time since 2012 as the two sides clash in the Scottish League Cup semi-final at Hampden Park.
After securing back-to-back promotions, the Gers have struggled with their push to re-join their great rivals in the top-tier, sitting 13 points behind Hearts in the Scottish Championship.
Nicholas is concerned Kenny McDowall’s men will struggle to match his former club for quality but will certainly make a fight of it.
He said: “I am a bit worried that it’s not going to be a footballing classic. We had seven in one season back in 2010/11 and they were always very exciting, always very dramatic.
“I’m glad it’s at neutral venue so we have a split support, which brings Rangers into the equation but footballing wise Celtic are far superior in defence, they should dominate the midfield and edge it in attack.
It’s sure to be a fiery affair and we’re guaranteed a red card – at least one
“Rangers are very ordinary at the back and their midfield is lacklustre but they will certainly match Celtic for attitude and commitment.”
Fiery
The Celtic legend is putting his neck on the line with his Sky Bet prediction but is more confident in predicting somebody seeing red.
“It’s sure to be a fiery affair and we’re guaranteed a red card – at least one,” he added.
“However, Scottish football needs to be on the back pages – nothing else will entertain me. I really hope that there isn’t any trouble, for the sake of Scottish football.
“I certainly don’t see it being a 6-0 or 7-0 scoreline but I see Celtic having enough.
“I’m going for a Celtic 2-0 win. I don’t think Rangers will be able to cope with Celtic’s set-piece threat, especially from Virgil van Dijk.”
