Rangers advanced to the next round of the Europa League thanks to Jack Butland’s heroics in the penalty shootout.
With a commanding 3-1 lead from the first leg against Fenerbahce, Rangers only needed to avoid a loss by more than one goal to secure their place in the next round. However, their lack of clinical finishing meant they posed little threat going forward, while Fenerbahce capitalized on their opportunities. The match ended 2-0 in favor of the Turkish side, sending the tie to extra time and penalties, where Butland’s saves ensured Rangers progressed to the quarterfinals.
Here’s how Rangers players performed:
Jack Butland – 9
Had little to do during the match and couldn’t prevent either Fenerbahce goal. However, his penalty shootout heroics were crucial in sending Rangers to the next round.
Dujon Sterling – 6 (for Yilmaz 55′)
Wasn’t at fault but didn’t contribute much during the match. His yellow card limited his ability to defend tightly, making his substitution the right decision.
James Tavernier – 5
Should have done better with Fenerbahce’s second goal, as he blocked Butland’s potential save but failed to stop the shot himself.
John Souttar – 6
Has been key for Rangers this season but was below his usual standards against Fenerbahce. He was unsteady on the ball and at times shaky in defense.
Leon Balogun – 8
Had to do more defensive work than usual but handled everything Fenerbahce threw at him well.
Jefte – 3 (for Hagi 84′)
Was lucky not to give away a penalty after a poor touch in his own box and appeared to be the weakest link in the team. His failed tackle led to Fenerbahce’s equalizer.
Connor Barron – 7 (for Lawrence 95′)
Created several chances and kept the ball moving well. Like Raskin, he struggled to provide defensive cover but improved as the game progressed.
Nico Raskin – 6
Did well with the ball but didn’t offer enough defensive stability, allowing Fenerbahce to pressure Rangers. Showed improvement as the match went on.
Vaclav Cerny – 7
Missed a good opportunity early in the game but was a constant threat. His final pass wasn’t always on target, but he remained Rangers’ main offensive threat.
Mohamed Diomande – 6 (for Bajrami 67′)
Brought energy and looked for the ball constantly. Though he showed promise with his passing, he lacked the decisive touch in the final third. Unlucky to be booked for what seemed like minimal contact.
Cyriel Dessers – 4 (for Igamane 67′)
Did some good hold-up play but lacked impact overall, with his performance not reflecting the quality he’s shown in previous matches.
Substitutes:
Ridvan Yilmaz – 5 (for Sterling 55′)
Had little influence after coming on.
Hamza Igamane – 6 (for Dessers 67′)
Made an immediate impact and caused problems for the Fenerbahce defense.
Nedim Bajrami – 6 (for Diomande 67′)
Brought urgency to the attack.
Ianis Hagi – N/A (for Jefte 84′)
Tom Lawrence – N/A (for Barron 95′)
