Rangers 0-1 Benfica : Rangers were eliminated from the Europa League following a 1-0 defeat at home to Benfica, with the aggregate score ending at 3-2 in favour of the Portuguese team.
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Under Philippe Clement’s guidance, Rangers entered the match with high spirits following a 2-2 tie in the first leg in Lisbon.
They dominated the first half despite the torrential rain at Ibrox, with Cyriel Dessers nearly breaking the deadlock. However, Benfica capitalized on Rangers’ defensive lapses.
Rafa Silva seized the ball at the midway line and dashed towards the goal before beating Jack Butland with a shot. Initially ruled offside, the goal was validated following an extensive VAR review.
This victory propels Benfica into the quarter-finals of the Europa League, while Rangers now shift their focus to the domestic league, aiming to secure the Scottish Premiership title.
How Rangers’ Europa League Journey Ended
Rangers’ aspirations of a repeat journey to the Europa League final were dashed, despite the Broomloan Stand fans displaying immense pre-match support, envisioning a trip to the Dublin final on May 22.
Instead, their campaign concluded at the last-16 stage.
The match commenced with Benfica controlling possession early, but Rangers created the first significant opportunity.
In linking up with Fabio Silva, Tom Lawrence unleashed a shot that nearly eluded goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin, who was lucky as the ball veered wide after touching his leg.
In Team Updates
Rangers’ boss Philippe Clement made a lineup change by substituting Scott Wright for the injured Dujon Sterling, while Todd Cantwell, returning from injury, was listed among the substitutes.
Lawrence had a golden chance to score from James Tavernier’s inventive corner but couldn’t make a clean connection. Jack Butland, meanwhile, showcased his skills by securing Alexander Bah’s long-distance effort despite the challenging conditions.
The game unfolded cautiously, starkly contrasting Portugal’s 2-2 draw. John Souttar stood out in defence for the Rangers, almost setting up Cyriel Dessers for a chance. Despite several opportunities, including a slip by Wright that sent the ball soaring over from 22 yards, Rangers couldn’t capitalize.
A misplaced pass by John Lundstram led to a tense moment, but Rangers avoided conceding. They missed another opportunity when Lawrence’s pass to an offside Dessers went astray.
Rangers intensified their attack in the second half, but Benfica remained dangerous on the break. Casper Tengstedt, coming off the bench, was thwarted by Butland. The turning point came when Rafa Silva converted a goal for Benfica after a VAR review confirmed he was onside, despite initial doubts.
Rangers struggled to find an equalizer, hindered by the wet conditions slowing the game. Butland’s save from Bah kept hope alive, but Trubin’s late save from Lundstram and Cantwell’s miss in stoppage time sealed Rangers’ fate, ending their European adventure.
Clement: The season has already been a success.
Rangers’ Philippe Clement reflected on the match:
Our performance today surpassed what we achieved in Lisbon; we were more effective with the ball. However, when facing teams with significantly higher budgets, we must seize every opportunity, which we should have done this time.
Moving past this European episode is essential while holding onto our pride.
I’m confident in my team and the spirit within our locker room. They’ll bounce back strongly and approach Sunday’s game eagerly.
This season is already notable – we’ve clinched the League Cup, and now our focus is sharply set on the remaining two trophies.
We are united in our effort and fully committed to achieving these objectives.
Looking ahead:
Rangers will next compete in the Scottish Premiership, leading the table as they face off against Dundee on Sunday at noon, with live coverage on Sky Sports.
Reference
https://www.skysports.com/football/rangers-vs-benfica/report/503835