Rangers Hold Bilbao in Gritty Europa League Stalemate Despite Early Red Card
Rangers will head into the second leg of their Europa League quarter-final against Athletic Bilbao with everything still to play for after grinding out a hard-fought 0-0 draw at Ibrox—despite playing with 10 men for most of the match.
Barry Ferguson’s tactical approach was quickly derailed when Robin Propper was shown a straight red card just 13 minutes in for denying Iñaki Williams a clear goalscoring opportunity. From that moment on, the Gers were forced into a resolute rearguard display, repelling wave after wave of Bilbao pressure.
Their resistance looked set to be undone with just nine minutes remaining when Dujon Sterling was penalised for handball, and a spot-kick was awarded to the visitors. But stand-in goalkeeper Liam Kelly stepped up heroically, diving to deny Álex Berenguer and preserve the clean sheet—sending the Ibrox crowd into wild celebrations.
The tie now moves to the Estadio de San Mamés on Thursday, 17 April, with the scoreline finely poised.
Player Ratings vs Athletic Bilbao:
1. Liam Kelly – 9/10
Commanded his box well and produced a superb fingertip save just before half-time. The hero of the night with a clutch penalty stop that capped off a brilliant all-round performance.
2. Dujon Sterling – 7/10
Pulled off a tremendous early challenge on Nico Williams and another key block in the second half. Harshly penalised for the handball incident.
3. Robin Propper – 3/10
Misplaced pass led to his early dismissal as he scrambled to recover and fouled Williams. A nightmare evening for the Dutchman.
4. Leon Balogun – 6/10
Made a vital block in the first half and relied on his experience to deal with Bilbao’s pace. Struggled slightly but held firm under intense pressure.
9. Ianis Hagi – 8/10
Usually known for his creative flair, Hagi impressed with his gritty defensive shift. Showed real determination and work rate.
10. Vaclav Cerny – 6/10
Threatened early and offered some respite going forward after the red card. Faded later on as Rangers sat deep.
11. Cyriel Dessers – 6/10
Worked tirelessly up front with little service. Had a decent effort from distance but also surrendered possession dangerously to Iñaki Williams.
Substitutes:
– Connor Barron (63’) – 6
– Jefte (63’) – 6
– Hamza Igamane (85’) – 6
– Ross McCausland (90+5’) – 6
– Nedim Bajrami (90+5’) – 6
A performance built on heart, grit, and discipline keeps Rangers in the tie ahead of a massive trip to Spain.
