Barry Ferguson Ends Fenerbahce’s 18-Game Unbeaten Run as Rangers Take Commanding Lead
Rangers delivered a remarkable Europa League performance in Istanbul, putting themselves in a strong position for the quarter-finals with a commanding victory over Fenerbahce. Interim boss Barry Ferguson masterminded a 3-1 triumph, snapping the Turkish side’s 18-match unbeaten streak and leaving them on the brink of elimination.
Jose Mourinho, however, cautioned Ferguson to “calm down,” reminding him that another 90 minutes remain in Glasgow next week. But with Cyriel Dessers’ strike and Vaclav Cerny’s brace securing a crucial first-leg advantage, Rangers fans are filled with optimism. While Alexander Djiku’s goal offers Fenerbahce a glimmer of hope, the Scottish giants are now within reach of a showdown with either Roma or Athletic Bilbao in the next round.
Mourinho’s presence always generates headlines, and this match was no exception. His team suffered their first defeat in 18 games, drawing strong reactions from the media across Europe.
What the Media is Saying
Yeni Asya (Turkey)
“Fenerbahce fell to Scottish side Rangers in the UEFA Europa League last 16, marking their first-ever defeat against the Glaswegian club. The teams had last met in the 2001-2002 Champions League qualifiers, where Fenerbahce advanced after a 2-1 home win. This time, however, the tables turned.”
Marca (Spain)
“Mourinho’s Fenerbahce were dominated by Rangers, who secured a 3-1 victory. The Scots are now set to face Athletic Bilbao if they see out the second leg. This could mark the beginning of the end for Mourinho in Istanbul.”
NTV (Turkey)
“Rangers triumphed 3-1 in Kadıköy, with goals from Dessers (7’) and Cerny (42’, 81’). Djiku provided Fenerbahce’s only goal in the 30th minute, but it was an embarrassing night for Mourinho. Rangers even had two goals ruled out by VAR for narrow offsides.”
Kicker (Germany)
“Rangers set the tone early, with Dessers punishing a defensive lapse in just the 6th minute. Djiku equalized with a volley, but Cerny restored the visitors’ lead before halftime. Despite some disallowed goals for offside, Rangers were ruthless, with Cerny sealing his brace after a solo effort. This defeat could be one Mourinho won’t survive.”
L’Equipe (France)
“Rangers ended Fenerbahce’s 18-match unbeaten streak with a well-earned 3-1 victory. Dessers shined with a goal and an assist, while Cerny’s double secured the win. The Scots could have won by a bigger margin, as Dessers had two more goals ruled out for offside. Barry Ferguson smiled on the touchline, while Mourinho may have to say goodbye to the Europa League.”
Haber Turk (Turkey)
“A disastrous night for Fenerbahce, and it could have been worse if VAR hadn’t intervened. Rangers were clinical, and Mourinho has no excuses left after this performance.”
Sporza (Belgium)
“Cyriel Dessers had a fantastic evening against Fenerbahce. He scored the opener and later set up a goal, though he was denied two more by VAR. Philippe Clement’s exit from Rangers raised doubts, but Dessers proved that the Scots are still thriving under Ferguson.”
With Rangers now in firm control of the tie, they head into the second leg at Ibrox with one foot in the Europa League quarter-finals.
