- MATCH POSTPONED: The Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) has confirmed the postponement of the highly anticipated match between Rangers and Celtic. This decision comes as a result of a new league policy designed to assist Scottish clubs in their European campaigns. The postponement allows Rangers to prioritize their crucial UEFA Champions League play-off round tie.
The SPFL Board, in an effort to support clubs aiming to reach the lucrative league phase of UEFA competitions, approved a new policy earlier this year. This ruling permits clubs involved in the play-off round of the Champions League, Europa League, or Conference League to postpone their domestic league fixture that falls between the two legs of the European tie.
Rangers, having successfully progressed to the Champions League play-off round, have exercised this option. The postponement of their Premiership fixture provides the team with a full week of rest and preparation, a strategic advantage that the club believes will be vital in their bid to secure a place in the group stage of Europe’s premier club competition. The club’s focus now shifts entirely to their European opponents, with the aim of maximizing their chances of qualification.
While Rangers have opted to take advantage of the new policy, their rivals Celtic have chosen a different path. The Scottish champions, also involved in the Champions League play-offs, have decided to proceed with their scheduled league match. This contrasting approach highlights the different priorities and squad management strategies of the two Glasgow giants as they navigate the demands of both domestic and European football.
The SPFL has stated that a new date for the postponed match will be announced once the UEFA league phase fixtures are confirmed at the end of August. The decision, while disappointing for fans eager to see the derby, underscores the league’s commitment to giving Scottish clubs the best possible chance to compete on the continental stage.
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