Raskin's Masterclass and Ferguson's Tactical Brilliance Propel Rangers to Derby Glory

Nicolas Raskin's dominant midfield display and Barry Ferguson's bold tactics secure Rangers' first Old Firm win at Celtic Park in five years.

Midfield Maestro Raskin Steals the Show

As the final whistle blew at Celtic Park, all eyes were on Nicolas Raskin. The Belgian midfielder put on a complete performance, scoring the opener and assisting the second in Rangers' dramatic 3-2 victory over arch-rivals Celtic - their first win at Parkhead since October 2020.

"The gaffer just wanted us to be aggressive and put pressure high up the pitch," Raskin told BBC Scotland after being named Man of the Match. "The team executed the plan perfectly."

Key Moments:

  • 4th minute: Raskin's determination sees him rise highest at near post to glance home opener
  • 31st minute: Intelligent run from deep followed by cushioned header sets up Diomande for 2-0
  • 16 duels won, 10 successful tackles, and 6 ball recoveries - all team-high statistics

Tactical Breakdown: How Rangers Dominated

Former Rangers striker Steven Thompson observed: "Rangers completely won the midfield battle. Celtic's creative players couldn't get any time on the ball under Raskin's intense pressure."

Ferguson's Bold Decisions Pay Off

Interim manager Barry Ferguson made several crucial calls:

  • Changed to back-three system for European fixtures
  • Kept faith with midweek heroes despite tired legs
  • Implemented aggressive high-pressing game plan

"I knew this team just needed belief," Ferguson said post-match. "The players have bought into our approach completely."

What This Means Going Forward

With this result, Rangers:

  • End five-year away derby drought
  • Keep title race alive in Scottish Premiership
  • Build momentum ahead of Europa League quarter-finals

As Raskin continues to impress, calls grow for his Belgium national team inclusion. Meanwhile, Ferguson's interim reign (now featuring European progression and historic derby win) makes compelling case for permanent appointment.

Opta Stats Highlight: 78% of Raskin's attacking third passes found teammates - his highest percentage in a Rangers shirt.

What to Read Next

Brendan Rodgers Optimistic About Celtic's Transfer Strategy for the 2025 Season
Football

Brendan Rodgers Optimistic About Celtic's Transfer Strategy for the 2025 Season

Brendan Rodgers discusses Celtic's transfer plans, emphasizing the importance of refreshing the squad for a competitive 2025 season.

Rangers Secure Gassama Transfer as Propper Nears Exit: A Summer of Strategic Moves
Football

Rangers Secure Gassama Transfer as Propper Nears Exit: A Summer of Strategic Moves

Rangers finalize the transfer of Djeidi Gassama from Sheffield Wednesday while Robin Propper considers an exit, shaping a dynamic summer for the club.

Celtic Bolsters Defense with Japanese Talent Hayato Inamura
Football

Celtic Bolsters Defense with Japanese Talent Hayato Inamura

Celtic secures Japanese centre-back Hayato Inamura on a four-year deal, enhancing their defensive lineup with promising talent.

Ivan Dolcek: The Fearless Winger Boosts Dundee United's Ambitions
Football

Ivan Dolcek: The Fearless Winger Boosts Dundee United's Ambitions

Ivan Dolcek joins Dundee United on loan, bringing his fearless ball-carrying skills and technical prowess to the Scottish Premiership.

Celtic's Strategic Moves: Kuhn to Como and Nawrocki's Loan to Hannover
Football

Celtic's Strategic Moves: Kuhn to Como and Nawrocki's Loan to Hannover

Celtic's manager Brendan Rodgers discusses the strategic transfers of Nicolas Kuhn to Como and Maik Nawrocki's loan to Hannover, highlighting the club's business model.

Hearts Set to Transfer James Penrice to AEK Athens: A New Chapter in Greek Football
Football

Hearts Set to Transfer James Penrice to AEK Athens: A New Chapter in Greek Football

Hearts' left-back James Penrice is nearing a transfer to AEK Athens, marking a significant move in his football career and a strategic acquisition for the Greek club.

Greg Taylor Joins PAOK After Turning Down Celtic Contract Extension
Football

Greg Taylor Joins PAOK After Turning Down Celtic Contract Extension

Scotland left-back Greg Taylor signs with PAOK after rejecting a new contract with Celtic, marking a new chapter in his football career.

Djeidi Gassama: Rangers' New Star Signing from Sheffield Wednesday
Football

Djeidi Gassama: Rangers' New Star Signing from Sheffield Wednesday

Rangers have secured the signing of promising left-winger Djeidi Gassama from Sheffield Wednesday, adding depth and excitement to their attack.

Greg Taylor Opens Up on Celtic Departure Amid Kieran Tierney Return Speculations
Football

Greg Taylor Opens Up on Celtic Departure Amid Kieran Tierney Return Speculations

Greg Taylor discusses his departure from Celtic, addressing rumors about Kieran Tierney's return and his new journey with PAOK.

Football Hate Crime: Seven Charged Over St Mirren vs Aberdeen Match Incident
Football

Football Hate Crime: Seven Charged Over St Mirren vs Aberdeen Match Incident

Seven individuals face charges for alleged hate crimes during a Scottish Premiership match between St Mirren and Aberdeen.

McGlynn's Mastery: Falkirk's Rise to Scottish Premiership Glory
Football

McGlynn's Mastery: Falkirk's Rise to Scottish Premiership Glory

Explore how John McGlynn transformed Falkirk from League One strugglers to Scottish Premiership contenders, emphasizing strategic management and youth development.

Scott McKenna Joins Dinamo Zagreb: A New Chapter After Las Palmas Exit
Football

Scott McKenna Joins Dinamo Zagreb: A New Chapter After Las Palmas Exit

Scott McKenna signs a multi-year contract with Dinamo Zagreb after leaving Las Palmas, marking a significant move in his football career.

Crystal Palace's Europa League Exclusion: A Controversial Decision in Football History
Football

Crystal Palace's Europa League Exclusion: A Controversial Decision in Football History

Crystal Palace's removal from the Europa League due to multi-club ownership rules has sparked outrage, with chairman Steve Parish calling it the biggest injustice in football history.

Stuart Kettlewell Inspires Kilmarnock to Forge a New Legacy in Scottish Football
Football

Stuart Kettlewell Inspires Kilmarnock to Forge a New Legacy in Scottish Football

Stuart Kettlewell motivates Kilmarnock to build on their rich history and aim for new heights in the Scottish Premiership and cup competitions.

Hibernian Shatters Transfer Record with Signing of Togo Striker Thibault Klidje
Football

Hibernian Shatters Transfer Record with Signing of Togo Striker Thibault Klidje

Hibernian breaks their transfer record to sign Togo international striker Thibault Klidje, enhancing their attacking options with his pace and potential.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.