The build-up to the Scottish Cup quarter-final between Celtic and Rangers has taken a dramatic turn after Rangers legend Ally McCoist delivered one of the boldest predictions ahead of the Glasgow derby, claiming Celtic could be “humiliated” when the two sides meet tomorrow.
“If you are a betting man, there is only one way the game will go,” McCoist said. “Celtic will be humiliated. Rangers have the quality and the belief right now, and Chermiti is exactly the kind of player that can destroy them.”
His comments quickly spread across social media, sparking intense debate among supporters of both clubs. Celtic fans labelled the prediction disrespectful and premature, while Rangers supporters welcomed the confidence coming from one of the club’s most iconic figures.
McCoist specifically pointed to Chermiti’s physical presence and attacking movement as key factors that could cause serious problems for Celtic’s defence. According to the Rangers legend, the forward possesses a combination of strength, pace and composure that could prove decisive in a derby where small moments often define the outcome.
“Derby matches are about big players stepping up,” McCoist added. “Chermiti has that quality. If Rangers play the way they can, he will cause Celtic a lot of trouble tomorrow.”
The Scottish Cup quarter-final carries enormous importance for both clubs, not only because of the rivalry but also because it offers a direct path toward silverware this season. A win would send either side into the semi-finals and further intensify the domestic battle between Scotland’s two biggest teams.
Despite McCoist’s strong prediction, many pundits believe the derby remains impossible to call, with both sides possessing the quality to swing the match in their favour. Celtic, playing in front of a passionate home crowd, will be determined to prove the former Rangers striker wrong.
But McCoist’s explosive comments have already added another layer of tension to a fixture that rarely needs extra drama. Now, all eyes turn to the pitch tomorrow to see whether his prediction becomes reality or simply fuels Celtic’s motivation in one of the most anticipated Glasgow derbies of the season.