Motherwell v Rangers: Match Preview, Odds, Lineups, Prediction

Explore Coral's detailed preview for Motherwell vs Rangers on matchday 1 of the Premiership. Stats, odds, predictions, and lineups for the 17:30 BST match.

• Fixture: Motherwell vs Rangers

• Date: Saturday, 02 August 2025

• Kick-off: 17:30 BST

• Venue: Fir Park

Motherwell's pre-season form has been decent. However, their form at the end of last season suggests they can be unpredictable. They might look to exploit any weaknesses in Rangers' lineup, particularly with the likely absence of key players like Dujon Sterling and Rabbi Matondo. Motherwell could aim to play a more defensive game, hoping to capitalise on counter-attacks and set pieces.

Rangers, despite missing important players due to injuries, have shown resilience in their recent matches. Their ability to adapt and still compete effectively could be crucial in this match. Rangers might dominate possession and look to break down Motherwell's defence with patient build-up play, but they will need to be wary of Motherwell's potential to strike on the break.

Match Prediction: Motherwell 1-2 Rangers

Motherwell may adopt a more cautious approach against Rangers, focusing on solid defending and quick transitions. Their performance in this game could hinge on their ability to stay organised and exploit any opportunities that arise from Rangers' missing players.

Recent Premiership Results:

• 1-1 (D) away to Ross County (18 May 2025)

• 3-0 (W) home win against Kilmarnock (14 May 2025)

• 3-0 (L) away to Hearts (10 May 2025)

• 1-2 (W) away to Dundee (03 May 2025)

• 3-2 (W) home win against St. Johnstone (26 Apr 2025)

Rangers’ adaptability and depth will be crucial against Motherwell, as they look to continue their solid run of form. Rangers will likely aim to control the game's tempo and use their experience to navigate through Motherwell's potentially unpredictable play.

Recent Premiership Results:

• 2-2 (D) away at Hibernian (17 May 2025)

• 3-1 (W) home win against Dundee United (14 May 2025)

• 4-0 (W) home win against Aberdeen (11 May 2025)

• 1-1 (D) home draw against Celtic (04 May 2025)

• 2-2 (D) away at St. Mirren (26 Apr 2025)

Historically, the head-to-head record between Motherwell and Rangers has been closely contested, with Motherwell securing two victories and Rangers winning two out of the last five encounters, and the other game ending in a draw. This suggests that Motherwell has a chance of victory, despite their perceived underdog status. 

Recent Meetings

• Rangers 1-2 Motherwell (01 Mar 2025)

• Motherwell 2-2 Rangers (29 Dec 2024)

• Motherwell 1-2 Rangers (03 Nov 2024)

• Rangers 2-1 Motherwell (10 Aug 2024)

• Rangers 1-2 Motherwell (02 Mar 2024)

• Aston Oxborough (Thigh problems) - Out

• Jordan McGhee (Thigh problems) - Out

• Zach Robinson (Achilles tendon rupture) - Out

• Dujon Sterling (Achilles tendon surgery) - Out

• Rabbi Matondo (Knee Surgery) - Out

• 4-4-2: Ward; Koutroumbis , Gordon, McGinn, Longelo; Watt, Miller, Slattery, Just; Stamatelopoulos, Maswanhise

Motherwell will likely focus on defensive solidity, with an emphasis on quick counter-attacks. Their recent form indicates they might need to be more disciplined and organised to counter Rangers' possession-based approach.

• 4-3-3: Butland; Tavernier, Djiga, Souttar, Aarons; Rothwell, Raskin, Diomande; Dowell, Danilo, Dessers

Rangers' predicted line-up, despite missing key players, demonstrates a commitment to maintaining their usual style of play. They will likely rely on their midfield to control the game and create scoring opportunities against Motherwell's defence.

• Lennon Miller (Motherwell): The highly-rated young midfielder enjoyed a strong campaign in the season, and will be looking to start the new campaign with a good performance.

• Danilo (Rangers): The Brazilian forward, who can unlock defences and will be vital for Rangers' attacking play.

• The midfield battle: The battle in the centre of the pitch could be key to deciding this encounter.

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Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.