Rangers delivered one of their most convincing performances under Russell Martin, sweeping aside Viktoria Plzeň 3-0 in the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round’s first leg at Ibrox. With the Scottish side now firmly in control ahead of their trip to the Czech Republic, the city of Glasgow is alight with European hope once more.
Resilience After Domestic Setback
The build-up to this crucial tie was loaded with tension. Rangers had drawn a disappointing 1-1 with Motherwell in the Scottish Premiership at the weekend, a result which saw Martin publicly question his team’s mentality and intensity. “We needed a reaction, and tonight we got it,” Martin said after the match, reflecting the sense of determination that had swept through the squad. His bold decision to leave stalwarts like captain James Tavernier and key midfielder Nicolas Raskin on the bench sent a clear message: only those who earned their place would start against Plzeň.
Tactical Gambles and New Faces Shine
The starting eleven featured significant changes. Oliver Antman, a debutant signed just days earlier, joined the line-up alongside the returning Cyriel Dessers and Djeidi Gassama. John Souttar, reliable all last season, was appointed captain for the evening.
Rangers dictated the rhythm from the off, with Ibrox bouncing as Djeidi Gassama—signed from Sheffield Wednesday this summer—opened the scoring after 15 minutes. The 22-year-old winger played a clever one-two with Dessers and curled the ball beyond Plzeň keeper Florian Wiegele, bringing the home crowd to their feet.
Antman’s lively debut added a new dimension. His pace and decision-making unsettled the visitors’ defence. It was his piercing run that led to a penalty late in the first half, when he was bundled over by Matej Vydra. Dessers stepped up, making no mistake from the spot to double Rangers’ advantage.
Plzeň Struggle Under Pressure
Viktoria Plzeň, who reached this stage after a spirited comeback win over Swiss side Servette, arrived with a reputation for scoring freely but also conceding often. Their attacking strengths seldom troubled a determined Rangers backline. Plzeň’s best chance came from Amar Memic late on—Jack Butland’s smart save preserved the clean sheet.
Plzeň’s attack, marshalled by Matej Vydra and Rafiu Durosinmi, struggled to penetrate Rangers’ defensive setup. The Czech side, who have not registered a clean sheet in six matches, found the step up to Ibrox just a little too steep.
Momentum Builds for Martin’s Men
The second half was barely under way when Gassama grabbed his second, heading home a cross from Antman and effectively killing the contest as a contest. From that point, Rangers managed the game with assurance, giving minutes from the bench to the likes of Raskin and Tavernier.
With the first leg finished, Rangers are now favourites to reach the play-off round, where a challenging tie against either Red Bull Salzburg or Club Brugge awaits. Martin praised the “fantastic” response from his players, making clear that every member of his squad would be critical for the journey ahead. “The energy, the aggression, and the intensity tonight were exactly what we want. The players that came in were superb,” he stated.
Breakout Performances and Selection Debates
Gassama’s brace put him centre stage, earning rave reviews for his blend of pace and finishing. More quietly but just as crucially, Lyall Cameron—the 22-year-old midfielder signed earlier in the window—won man of the match plaudits. His passing range and relentless movement gave Rangers a midfield platform they had lacked in previous outings.
The tactical shake-up did not just freshen the starting eleven; it sent a clear signal throughout the squad as Rangers prepare for a busy summer on both domestic and European fronts. While experienced heads like Souttar made minor errors, there was a collective sharpness and purpose that bode well for the weeks ahead.
Key Statistics and What Lies Ahead
With more than 45,000 at Ibrox, Rangers enjoyed over 60% possession, registered five shots on target, and rarely looked troubled at the back. Plzeň, by contrast, managed just three efforts on goal—all comfortably handled by Butland.
Despite their tendency to score first in previous matches, Plzeň looked toothless for long spells. Both teams have been prolific this season, and pre-match analysis had pointed to a high-scoring affair. Yet Rangers’ defensive improvements stood out, showing Martin’s work on the training ground is bearing fruit.
The Verdict
This result hands Rangers a commanding position heading into the return leg. It marks a significant step in their European campaign and offers genuine cause for optimism for supporters. With standout new arrivals, renewed energy throughout the squad, and the backing of a raucous home crowd, the Light Blues are marching confidently forward.
For Russell Martin and his rejuvenated Rangers, this European night at Ibrox could be the start of something special. Their next challenge is to replicate this form away from home and cement their place among the continent’s elite.
The city now waits to see if their club can turn a bold first step into lasting progress on the European stage.
Viktoria Plzeň’s Uphill Battle
Plzeň, best known for their adventurous play in European football, struggled to assert control. Despite an early header from striker Rafiu Durosinmi and a late volley from captain Matej Vydra, clear-cut chances were limited. Defensive lapses—including a clumsy challenge for the penalty—highlighted why the Czech side rarely keeps clean sheets at this level. Their recent run through the qualifying rounds, particularly a dogged win over Servette, showed resilience, but they were unable to match Rangers’ energy and organisation on this occasion.
Conclusion:
Rangers’ emphatic win over Viktoria Plzeň has reinvigorated their European ambitions and delighted fans at Ibrox. The blend of bold tactical changes, outstanding debuts from new signings, and a spirited team display put them in a commanding position ahead of the second leg. With renewed confidence and clear momentum, Rangers look well-placed to secure their passage to the next round and continue their pursuit of Champions League football.
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