Rangers confirmed in a statement published on Wednesday that they will take part in the Sydney Super Cup, a friendly tournament scheduled for November, along with rivals Celtic, during the break for the World Cup in Qatar. This would be the first Old Firm derby to be played outside the Scottish region – which did not go down well with some fans.
Celtic had announced their participation in the tournament on Tuesday, without confirming opponents, highlighting the homecoming of their coach Ange Postekoglu and their large fan base in Australia. This Wednesday, Rangers confirmed that they will also be joining the competition starting November 16.
Western Sydney Wanderers and Sydney FC will be the other participants. Old Firm will be played on 20 November, and all games are scheduled for Accor Stadium, which is known for hosting athletics and the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2000 Olympics. It has a capacity of 83,000 people.
Rangers commercial and marketing director James Bisgrove highlighted the financial benefits of closing the deal. “I think we’ve never had an offer of this level for two friendly games for an international tournament. It’s something that the board unanimously sees as a positive opportunity for Ranger.”
Potescoglou is glad to have a tour of your country. “It will be special. The club has always had a strong connection to Australia and I know how passionate the fan groups are and how they follow the club. And I think the general Australian public would be very proud that one of them Is in charge of such a famous club.
But Scottish commentators said that friendly opposition from Club 1872, a group of the country’s main Derby and Rangers fans, demanded a response. “Despite the amount involved, divesting a significant portion of your fan base may not be considered a good business decision. The way this entire episode was once again told to fans highlights a lack of genuine fan engagement, which has been replaced by saturated marketing activity over the years. ,
“Fans are by far the biggest contributor to Rangers’ financial health, and Rangers executives should remember that.”
