Grant Scott has put the squad on notice ahead of a Rangers fixture that carries both silverware ambitions and the full weight of Celtic pride – this one matters enormously.
As reported on the official Celtic FC website, head coach Grant Scott has previewed our trip to face the Rangers in what is shaping up to be one of the most significant fixtures of the 2025–26 SWPL season. With silverware still within reach and the pride of Glasgow on the line, Scott has made clear this group knows exactly what is at stake.
Scott took charge in January 2026, stepping into a three-way title fight with the Rangers and Glasgow City that has tested this squad’s resilience at every turn. Earlier in the campaign, we were beaten 3–0 by the Ibrox club in a result Scott himself admitted his side deserved – a rare moment of brutal honesty that told you plenty about the standards he expects. But Celtic’s response since then has been the real story.
A 1–0 cup victory over the same opponents demonstrated just what this group is capable of when they are organised, disciplined, and fully committed to the cause. Scott praised his players for the way they “fended off relentless pressure” and operated as a “cohesive unit” – and you could hear the pride behind every word.
Speaking ahead of Friday’s match, Scott set the tone directly. “These are the games you want to be involved in. The players know what this fixture means and what is on the line – we’re ready for it.”
He also spoke about the squad’s mentality going into the match, stressing that the setbacks earlier in the season have only sharpened the group’s focus. “We want to be on the front foot in big games like this. The ambition in that dressing room is real, and this week has been about making sure everything is in place to show that.”
The Bigger Picture
Here’s the thing – this fixture is not just a league game, and everyone connected to Celtic Women knows it. Beyond the SWPL table, we are also heading towards a Scottish Cup final against the very same opponents at Hampden, which means the rivalry between these two clubs is reaching a genuine season-defining intensity. Every result between us now carries psychological weight that will echo into that final.
With encouraging injury news filtering through the squad in recent days, Scott has every reason for optimism about what this group can produce. And after the historic moments this club has delivered, another statement result against the Ibrox club would be entirely fitting.
Scott and this Celtic Women’s squad have earned the right to go into this match with belief. Let’s see them deliver.
Mon The Hoops.
