Olwethu Makhanya hails growing Emmanuel Fernandez partnership at Rangers

Bafana Bafana centre-back Olwethu Makhanya has praised his growing partnership with Emmanuel Fernandez as Rangers prepare for their biggest test yet against Celtic.

Makhanya has quickly become an important part of Rangers’ defence since joining the Scottish giants from Philadelphia Union during the summer transfer window.

The 22-year-old signed a four-year contract with the club, which also holds an option to extend his stay through the 2030-31 season.

A member of South Africa’s squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Makhanya has impressed since settling into life at Ibrox and has formed a promising central defensive partnership with Fernandez.

Rangers finding defensive stability

Rangers have won their last four Premiership matches, conceding just once during that run, with Makhanya and Fernandez increasingly providing the foundation for their improved defensive record.

The South African believes their understanding has been central to Rangers’ recent run of form, while also crediting the wider defensive unit for helping him adapt quickly to his new surroundings.

Speaking to Rangers’ official website, Makhanya said: “I feel like defensively there is a very good partnership between me and Fernandez, James [Penrice] from the left and obviously Dujon [Sterling].

“There is a lot of understanding, and the guys have welcomed me very well, so it makes it easy for me to be part of the group.”

Celtic showdown awaits

That developing understanding will now face its sternest examination when Rangers host bitter rivals Celtic at Ibrox on Sunday afternoon.

The two sides will meet in the Premier Sports Cup quarter-final, with a place in the semi-finals at Hampden Park on the line.

For Makhanya and Fernandez, the Old Firm clash offers an opportunity to prove that their partnership can withstand the pressure of one of Scottish football’s most demanding fixtures.

With Rangers having conceded only once across their last four league victories, their defensive form will be crucial against Celtic.

Makhanya’s rapid integration has therefore come at an important time, with the South African now preparing for a high-pressure assignment that could further establish him as a key figure in Rangers’ backline.