Mohamed Diomande is confident that Rangers will travel to Spain full of belief that they can cause an upset in the Europa League. He also addressed the tensions following the 2-2 draw with Aberdeen on Sunday. Diomande, who missed the first leg of the quarter-final against Athletic Bilbao due to suspension, came on at half-time as Barry Ferguson’s team staged a comeback from 2-0 down, despite being a man short after Ross McCausland’s red card.
Diomande, reflecting on the game, said, “It was tough being down a man, but we showed great character to come back and earn a point. We’re happy with the 2-2 result, but we’re not celebrating it. Thursday’s match is crucial as we aim for bigger goals as a team. The character we showed today will give us a chance if we carry it into the next match.”
“There’s belief in the team. Not everyone gets the opportunity to play in a semi-final, and we’re all together, believing we can make it.”
Aberdeen’s frustration after their win turned into a draw led to a brief exchange of words between Shinnie, Diomande, and substitute John Souttar. Diomande explained, “It’s part of the game. Shinnie’s tough, but I like that. I’m tough on the pitch too, and I won’t back down easily. If he steps on my toes, I’ll stand up for myself. After the game, we shook hands and moved on.”
The Ivorian midfielder is expected to join Nico Raskin in midfield for the upcoming match against Bilbao. With the tie delicately poised at 0-0 after last week’s draw, Diomande expressed frustration at having to watch from the stands due to a suspension, but now he’s ready to make up for lost time. “It’s unlucky to watch from the stands. It was hard to stay still and not get involved,” he admitted. “I was proud of my team’s effort, commitment, and fight. I hope to start on Thursday, but we still have two training sessions before then. I’ll give my best and hope to contribute.”
Rangers have been strong in their European away games, and Diomande is confident heading into the match. “We’re looking forward to it. I’m confident something great is coming our way.”
Athletic Bilbao, who have the incentive of a home final, will be the favorites, but Diomande believes the pressure of being the home team could work in Rangers’ favor. “I don’t know what pressure they’re feeling, but we’re going there to win. Every team faces pressure, and we’ll handle it.”
Having watched Athletic’s games and La Liga in general, Diomande recognizes the individual talent in the Bilbao squad but believes Rangers can cope with it, as they did last week.
If Rangers succeed in overcoming this tie, it would be a greater achievement than their win over Jose Mourinho’s side in the previous round. Diomande continues to appreciate the guidance of manager Barry Ferguson, who is helping him refine his game. “Ferguson has pushed me to improve, especially with small details like how to dominate space in midfield. He’s helping me position myself better, both with and without the ball, and these small things are making me a better player every day.”
