No away fans, Euro calamities & derby debuts - why Old Firm tie is crucial

The Old Firm derby match between Rangers and Celtic on Sunday at Ibrox carries significant importance this season. This is the first time the two Glasgow giants have faced each other since the temporary ban on away supporters at their matches due to unrest in last year's Scottish Cup quarter-final.

Celtic has been in excellent form this season, winning all six Scottish Premiership matches so far with 14 goals scored and just three conceded. However, their Champions League run was halted against LASK in the play-off round, where they were eliminated 5-1 on aggregate after losing the first leg 2-1.

Rangers, on the other hand, had a mixed start to the new season. They began with a draw against Dundee United and a defeat to Hibernian, leaving manager Derek McInnes winless in his first two Premiership games. But a strong League Cup performance and four league wins since then have improved their standing.

Both managers emphasize the importance of a strong start. Celtic legend Scott Brown advises that getting an early goal could create a nervous atmosphere at Ibrox. For Rangers, the derby offers an opportunity to make a strong statement after a challenging start domestically and on the European stage.

The ban on away fans at Ibrox is a result of events from last season's Scottish Cup quarter-final, which saw unrest and pitch incursions from both sets of fans. Despite the absence of visiting fans, the derby remains highly anticipated, with both teams striving to make their mark on this historic occasion.