Rangers Edge Past Fenerbahce to Secure Europa League Quarterfinal Spot
Rangers advanced to the next round of the Europa League, largely thanks to Jack Butland’s outstanding performance in the penalty shootout.
Holding a commanding 3-1 lead from the first leg, Rangers knew they only needed to avoid losing by more than one goal against Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce to progress. However, a lack of attacking sharpness meant they struggled to create clear chances, while Fenerbahce were clinical, netting twice in normal time to force extra time and eventually penalties. Butland’s heroics in the shootout ultimately sealed their place in the quarterfinals.
Player Ratings: Rangers v Fenerbahce
Jack Butland – 9
Had little to do during the match and could not have prevented either of Fenerbahce’s goals. However, his brilliance in the penalty shootout was the key factor in Rangers’ progression.
Dujon Sterling – 6 (substituted for Yilmaz, 55′)
A steady but unremarkable performance. His yellow card made it difficult for him to be aggressive in his challenges, and Ferguson made the right call in taking him off.
James Tavernier – 5
At fault for Fenerbahce’s second goal, as he obstructed Butland yet failed to block the shot himself.
John Souttar – 6
Has been a reliable performer this season but struggled in this match. Looked uncomfortable on the ball and had some shaky moments defensively.
Leon Balogun – 8
Had to do more defending than usual due to Jefte’s struggles but handled the pressure well.
Jefte – 3 (substituted for Hagi, 84′)
Nearly conceded a penalty with a poor touch near his own box and was consistently vulnerable in defense. His failed tackle led directly to Fenerbahce’s equaliser.
Connor Barron – 7 (substituted for Lawrence, 95′)
Created several half-chances and kept possession well but, like Raskin, struggled to provide defensive stability.
Nico Raskin – 6
Comfortable in possession but lacked defensive presence. Improved as the game went on, offering more control in midfield.
Rangers Struggle in Attack Against Fenerbahce
Vaclav Cerny – 7
Missed a great chance early on but remained a consistent attacking threat. However, his final pass often lacked precision.
Mohamed Diomande – 6 (substituted for Bajrami, 67′)
Energetic in midfield and generally tidy in possession, though he made some errant passes. Harshly booked for a seemingly soft foul.
Cyriel Dessers – 4 (substituted for Igamane, 67′)
Held up the ball well at times but was largely ineffective. Has shown much better quality in previous performances.
Substitutes
Ridvan Yilmaz – 5 (for Sterling, 55′)
Made little impact after coming on.
Hamza Igamane – 6 (for Dessers, 67′)
Looked lively and caused issues for the Fenerbahce defense.
Nedim Bajrami – 6 (for Diomande, 67′)
Brought a sense of urgency in attack.
Ianis Hagi – N/A (for Jefte, 84′)
Tom Lawrence – N/A (for Barron, 95′)
