**Starting XIs Revealed: Rangers Vs Hearts**

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Post on Nov 11, 2024

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Starting XIs Revealed: Rangers vs Hearts - A Battle for Scottish Supremacy

The stage is set for a thrilling encounter in the Scottish Premiership as Rangers lock horns with Hearts at Ibrox. Both sides are in stellar form, making this clash a mouth-watering prospect for fans of Scottish football. With bragging rights and league positioning on the line, let's delve into the starting XIs that both managers have chosen for this highly anticipated fixture.

Rangers

Manager Michael Beale has opted for a strong and experienced lineup, aiming to maintain their momentum from recent wins. The Gers will likely deploy a familiar 4-3-3 formation, with key players ready to deliver a dominant performance.

• Goalkeeper: Allan McGregor - The veteran shot-stopper remains a rock at the back for Rangers.
• Defence: James Tavernier (captain), Connor Goldson, Ben Davies, Borna Barisic - This defensive quartet provides a potent blend of experience and athleticism.
• Midfield: John Lundstram, Nicolas Raskin, Todd Cantwell - Expect a midfield battle with a focus on controlling the tempo and creating chances.
• Attack: Fashion Sakala, Alfredo Morelos, Ryan Kent - This attacking trio boasts pace, power, and creativity, posing a significant threat to the Hearts backline.

Hearts

Head Coach Robbie Neilson will be looking to upset the odds at Ibrox and secure a valuable away point. He is likely to field a more cautious 4-5-1 formation, prioritizing solidity and counter-attacking opportunities.

• Goalkeeper: Zander Clark
• Defence: Kieran Tierney, Stephen Kingsley, Toby Sibbick, Michael Smith
• Midfield: Cammy Devlin, Peter Haring, Andy Halliday, Josh Ginnelly, Alex Cochrane
• Attack: Lawrence Shankland - The in-form striker will be looking to exploit any defensive weaknesses in the Rangers backline.

Key Battles

This match promises a number of fascinating tactical duels. The battle in midfield will be crucial, with Raskin and Lundstram aiming to dominate possession against the likes of Devlin and Haring. Upfront, Morelos and Sakala will be looking to use their pace and power to break down the Hearts defense, while Shankland will pose a constant threat on the counter.

Prediction

Both teams are in excellent form, making this a difficult fixture to call. Rangers' home advantage and attacking firepower give them the slight edge, but Hearts' resolute defense and Shankland's goalscoring prowess could make for a thrilling encounter. We're expecting a close contest, with Rangers edging out Hearts 2-1 in a hard-fought victory.

Stay tuned for more pre-match analysis, live updates, and post-match reaction as Rangers and Hearts prepare to do battle on the pitch.