Rangers vs Hibernian

Rangers, currently third in the Scottish Premiership, are set to face off against ninth-placed Hibernian at Ibrox Stadium for matchday six of the 2024-25 season. This encounter comes at a critical time for both clubs, as they seek to consolidate their standings and gain crucial points. For Rangers, the fixture is an opportunity to continue their upward trajectory after a mixed start to the season, while Hibernian will be hoping to build on their recent win and improve their overall league form.

Recent Form and Team Performances

Rangers began their campaign with a degree of inconsistency, a factor that worried fans and raised questions about the direction of the team under manager Philippe Clement. Despite being one of the favourites to contend for the Scottish Premiership title, Rangers stumbled in their opening fixtures, winning only three of their first seven matches across all competitions. This unsteady start included two draws and two losses, with the most significant setback being their 3-1 aggregate defeat to Dynamo Kyiv in the Champions League third qualifying round. That result not only dashed their hopes of entering Europe's premier competition but also sparked concerns over the club's readiness for a long and grueling season. With these early-season challenges came increased scrutiny on Clement, who had been appointed to lead Rangers back to the top of Scottish football after the departure of Michael Beale.

However, recent results suggest that Rangers may have turned a corner. The team has managed to string together a series of victories that have restored some belief among fans and the club hierarchy. The most notable of these wins was a commanding 2-0 triumph over Malmo in their Europa League opener, a result that underlined Rangers’ potential to compete at a high level in continental football. Clement's squad also picked up crucial league points in recent matches, showcasing greater cohesion and defensive solidity. These three successive wins have propelled Rangers into a more favorable position heading into their upcoming match against Hibernian. Now, with five points separating them from the top two in the league, Rangers cannot afford to drop points if they hope to mount a serious title challenge.

The hosts will be buoyed by their return to form, but they will need to maintain their focus against a Hibernian side that, while not performing at their best, will not be taken lightly. Hibernian have had a mixed bag of results so far this season, with just one win, two draws, and two losses in their opening five league games. That solitary win came in their most recent outing, where they secured a 2-0 victory over St Johnstone at home, giving them a much-needed boost ahead of their trip to Ibrox.

Rangers' Recent Surge and Tactical Adjustments

Philippe Clement's tactical approach has come under the microscope in recent weeks, but there is growing evidence that his methods are starting to take hold within the squad. The Belgian manager prefers a balanced style of play, combining a disciplined defensive structure with swift counter-attacking moves. Early in the season, Rangers struggled to implement this philosophy consistently, as defensive errors and a lack of cutting edge in attack led to dropped points.

However, the last few matches have seen a noticeable improvement. Clement has made some key tactical adjustments, notably shifting the midfield dynamic to provide greater protection for the backline while also ensuring that the team transitions more effectively into attack. Players like Todd Cantwell and Nicolas Raskin have been instrumental in driving the team forward, while defenders such as Connor Goldson and James Tavernier have tightened things up at the back. These changes have made Rangers a more resilient unit, capable of seeing out games with greater control.

The match against Malmo was a testament to this growing sense of cohesion within the team. Not only did Rangers dominate possession, but they also created a number of clear-cut chances while limiting their opponents to speculative efforts. The win was a significant confidence booster for the squad, coming at a time when they needed to prove their mettle in Europe after their Champions League disappointment.

Rangers' recent good form will give them confidence as they approach the fixture against Hibernian. They are clear favourites to secure another win, given their superior squad depth and quality. That said, Clement will be wary of any complacency, knowing that his side can ill-afford to drop points as they look to close the gap at the top of the table.

Hibernian's Struggles and Recent Victory

While Hibernian’s season has not gone according to plan, their recent win over St Johnstone could be the catalyst they need to start climbing the table. Managed by David Gray, Hibernian have endured a rocky start to the 2024-25 campaign, winning just four of their first ten matches across all competitions. This includes a Scottish Premiership record of one win, two draws, and two losses. Gray, who took over after the departure of Lee Johnson, has had to navigate a challenging fixture list and a series of underwhelming performances, which has left his team languishing in the bottom half of the table.

Despite their poor form, Hibernian will take heart from their victory over St Johnstone. That 2-0 win was a much-needed boost for the club, as it marked their first league victory of the season. In that game, Hibernian showed greater defensive discipline and were clinical in front of goal, something they had struggled with in earlier matches. Goals from Elie Youan and Dylan Vente were enough to secure all three points, and the hope will be that this result can kickstart a more positive run of form.

One advantage that Hibernian might have going into the Rangers game is the fact that they have had a two-week break since their last match. During that time, they have been able to rest and regroup, while Rangers have had to contend with a busy schedule that included Europa League action. Gray will be hoping that the extra rest will give his side the physical edge they need to compete with Rangers, especially given the demanding nature of playing at Ibrox.

Hibernian’s Recent Record Against Rangers

Recent history does not bode well for Hibernian, as they have struggled against Rangers in their last several meetings. The Edinburgh-based side have not beaten Rangers in their last 10 encounters, with their most recent victory coming in November 2021 when they triumphed 3-1. Since then, Rangers have dominated this fixture, and Hibernian will need to produce something special if they are to break their winless streak.

In the 2023-24 season, Rangers defeated Hibernian in all three of their league encounters, including a comprehensive 3-0 win at Ibrox. These past results suggest that Rangers will go into Sunday’s match full of confidence, knowing that they have the measure of their opponents. That said, football is unpredictable, and Hibernian will believe that they can cause an upset if they play to their potential.

Key Players and Tactical Battles

For Rangers, captain James Tavernier will once again be a key figure. The right-back is not only a defensive stalwart but also one of Rangers’ main attacking outlets. His ability to deliver pinpoint crosses and take on set-piece responsibilities makes him a crucial player in Clement’s system. Tavernier has been instrumental in Rangers’ recent run of victories, and his leadership will be vital if they are to continue their winning streak.

In midfield, the duo of Nicolas Raskin and John Lundstram will need to control the tempo of the game. Raskin, in particular, has shown glimpses of his creative ability, while Lundstram’s box-to-box energy will be essential in both defense and attack. Up front, Rangers will look to their attacking trio of Rabbi Matondo, Cyriel Dessers, and Danilo to provide the goals. All three have shown flashes of brilliance this season, and Clement will be counting on them to break down Hibernian’s defense.

For Hibernian, Elie Youan will be the key man. The winger has been one of Hibs’ most dangerous players this season, using his pace and dribbling ability to trouble opposition defenses. If Hibernian are to get anything from the match, Youan will need to be at his best. In midfield, Joe Newell and Dylan Levitt will have to work tirelessly to disrupt Rangers’ rhythm and create opportunities for their forwards.

Conclusion

Sunday’s match between Rangers and Hibernian promises to be an intriguing contest. While Rangers are the favourites, Hibernian will be hoping that their recent win and extra rest will give them the boost they need to pull off an upset. For Philippe Clement’s side, the focus will be on maintaining their winning run and closing the gap on the top two, while Hibernian will aim to build on their victory over St Johnstone and climb the league table. Either way, this match could prove pivotal for both teams as they look to achieve their respective goals this season.