Premier Sports Cup Semi-Final: Celtic vs. Rangers Preview
Premier Sports Cup Semi-Final: Celtic vs. Rangers
Venue: Hampden Park, Glasgow Date: Sunday, 2 November Kick-off: 14:00 GMT
Coverage: Listen to match commentary on BBC Radio Scotland and Sounds, and follow live text updates on the BBC Sport website and app.
Rangers head coach Danny Rohl has expressed his deep respect for Martin O'Neill as he prepares to face Celtic's interim manager in the upcoming Premier Sports Cup semi-final. O'Neill, who returned to Celtic following Brendan Rodgers' resignation earlier this week, has managed 27 Old Firm derbies during his previous tenure at the club.
Rohl, in his fourth match in charge of Rangers, will be overseeing his 93rd game as a head coach, while O'Neill approaches nearly 1,000 matches in management. "I have big respect for such a coaching career," the German coach stated. "It's impressive to see someone work so long in this business and achieve success. I am just starting my journey and have much to accomplish to reach that level. However, the exciting part is that we begin at 0-0, representing different generations. Let's see what we can bring to the game with our teams."
Rohl is "very excited" about experiencing his first Old Firm derby, having watched these renowned encounters on television during his youth. "Growing up, it was certainly a world-famous match," he remarked. "When you see such games on TV, you always enjoy them because they are filled with action, drama, intensity, goals, and fierce competition. It promises to be a thrilling match."
Having previously served as an assistant coach at Bayern Munich, Rohl has experienced significant derbies and hopes to replicate the success he found in his first match against Borussia Dortmund, which ended in a 4-0 victory. "I remember when Hansi Flick took over; our second game was at home against Borussia Dortmund, and we won decisively," he recalled. "This is why we love the game – to be part of such moments. It’s all or nothing; winning means reaching the final, while losing means elimination. Everything is set for an exciting game."
Rangers aim to secure their third consecutive victory on Sunday, with Rohl pleased with how his players have bounced back after losing to Brann in his debut match. "Right now, the positive energy is back, and the belief is strong," he noted. "Achieving three wins in a row would be fantastic. I provide my players with various ideas, and they are receptive, displaying great character on the pitch. It’s wonderful to witness, but we understand it’s just two steps forward, not more."