While Rangers FC is undoubtedly one of the most successful football clubs in Scotland, they have also experienced some painful losses throughout its history.

Despite their numerous victories, the club has faced tough defeats that have left a lasting impact on players and fans. In this article, we will delve into some of Rangers FC’s biggest losses in the Scottish League, Europe and against rivals Glasgow Celtic FC.

Rangers FC 0-8 Celtic FC (1957)

This is Rangers’ biggest-ever defeat in their history. It was a Scottish League Division One fixture at Celtic Park in Glasgow. It was the 36th meeting between the two teams, with the Rangers leading the head-to-head record with 15 wins.

Celtic, managed by Jimmy McGrory then, was in fine form and dominated the game from start to finish. The Rangers struggled to keep up with their opponents and could not mount any serious challenges throughout the game. The goal scorers for the Celtic were Bobby Collins (3), Charlie Tully (2), Billy McPhail (2), and Neil Mochan.

Read: Celtic biggest wins of all time – Top 5 in league and Europe

Motherwell FC 7-1 Rangers (1938)

The match was played on August 20, 1938, at Fir Park in Motherwell, Scotland. Rangers, managed by Bill Struth at the time, were expected to win the game comfortably but were completely outplayed by their opponents.

Motherwell took the lead in the 19th minute through a goal from Willie MacFadyen, Bob Ferrier adding a second one within 5 minutes. Rangers pulled a goal back through Jimmy Smith, but Motherwell stole the show further with goals from MacFayden, Bobby Ancell, Alex Rae, Ferrier, and Jimmy Brownlie, completing the 7-1 rout.

Rangers FC 0-6 Celtic FC (2000)

Rangers were humiliated by Celtics in one of the most one-sided Old Firm matches in Scottish football history, and it remains a memorable and significant match for both sets of fans.

The game was played on 27 August 2000, at Ibrox stadium in Glasgow. Rangers, managed by Dutchman Dick Advocaat at the time, were expected to put up a strong challenge against their rivals but were completely outplayed and outclassed.

Celtic took the lead in the 13th minute through a goal from Henrik Larsson before adding a second goal five minutes later through Joos Valgaeren. Larsson added his second goal to make it 3-0 at halftime. The second half saw Celtic continue to dominate with goals from Chris Sutton, Stiliyan Petrov, and Larsson completing the 6-0 thrashing.

Eintracht Frankfurt 6-1 Rangers FC (1959)

The match is considered one of the most memorable games in European football history due to the scintillating attacking display by Frankfurt. The German side competing in the European Cup semi-finals dominated the match from start to finish, scoring six goals, including a famous volley from legendary striker Di Stefano.

The players netting the goals were Richard Kress, Erwin Stein (2), Hans Weilbacher, and Alfredo Di Stefano (2). In contrast, Rangers could only manage a consolation goal by Jimmy Miller. The result remains a bitter memory for Ranger fans.

Rangers FC 0-5 Celtic FC (1972)

In the 1972 Scottish Cup final, Celtic FC thrashed their bitter rivals Rangers FC 5-0 at Hamden Park, Glasgow, in one of the most famous Old Firm matches.

Celtic dominated the match from the start, and Jimmy Johnstone scored the opening goal in the 13th minute. Celtic continued to attack relentlessly, doubling their lead through Steve Murray in the 27th minute.

Later, Celtic goals were scored by Bobby Lennox, George Connelly, and Harry Hood. The match Is also remembered for the incredible performance by Celtic’s Jimmy Johnstone, who was named man of the game and contributed to three of the Celtics’ five goals.