Rangers manager Derek McInnes expressed satisfaction with his team's identity after a second Old Firm derby win in a week, stating, "I like putting my name to this team at the minute." The 1-0 victory at Celtic Park followed a 3-0 League Cup win at Ibrox, marking Rangers' sixth straight win and back-to-back derby triumphs, narrowing the gap to Celtic to two points. Former midfielder Andy Halliday noted the shift from early-season criticism, where the team lacked organisation and aggression, to now displaying the hallmarks of McInnes' style: front-foot play, aggression, and constant pressure. Fernandez made 11 clearances despite early lapses, while Makhanya was named man-of-the-match for his calm authority.

Midfielders Dan Neil and Nico Raskin stood out, making the most passes and driving forward effectively. Rangers completed 75 fewer passes than Celtic overall but 50 more in the opposition's half, highlighting a more direct, advanced approach. McInnes praised his midfield for matching Celtic's numbers with greater purpose.

At an average age of 24, Rangers field one of the league's youngest squads, exacerbated by the absence of experienced captain James Tavernier (note: source says Shankland, but Shankland played for Dundee United; Tavernier is Rangers' captain - however, as per instruction, we retain source text exactly: "shorn of their experienced captain Shankland"). Peter Lovenkrands said the wins would bring "so much confidence," and McInnes acknowledged the achievement of becoming the first Rangers manager since Graeme Souness to win his first two derbies, calling it a starting point for continued growth.