Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
Europa League Clash Sees VAR Drama as Rangers and Athletic Bilbao Draw
Video Assistant Referee (VAR) once again sparked controversy and excitement in a dramatic Europa League quarter-final first leg encounter between Rangers and Athletic Bilbao. A whirlwind of VAR reviews saw Rangers reduced to ten men early on with a red card issued to defender Robin Pröpper, while Athletic Bilbao experienced a disallowed goal followed immediately by a penalty, which was ultimately saved. The match concluded in a scoreless stalemate, leaving everything to play for in the return leg in Spain as both teams vie for a coveted spot in the Europa League final.
Early Red Card Shakes Rangers
The sending off of Pröpper in the early stages of the match forced a tactical reshuffle for Rangers, who then focused on defensive resilience to remain competitive in the tie. Despite being a player down, they demonstrated grit and determination to limit Athletic Bilbao’s attacking threat.
Kelly’s Stellar Performance in Goal
Goalkeeper Liam Kelly emerged as a pivotal figure for Rangers, justifying his inclusion in the starting lineup. Brought in as a replacement for Jack Butland following recent errors, Kelly’s performance validated the manager’s decision. Despite the pressure, Kelly exhibited composure and critical saves throughout the match.
VAR Denies Bilbao, Kelly Saves Penalty
A critical moment arrived when Athletic Bilbao appeared to have broken the deadlock, only for VAR to intervene. Álex Berenguer’s strike was initially ruled offside, but the VAR review also detected a handball in the build-up by Dujon Sterling, further adding to the drama. Amidst the confusion at Ibrox, Kelly remained focused and produced a superb penalty save from Berenguer, preserving the goalless scoreline.
Defensive Resolve and Tactical Discipline
Beyond Kelly’s individual brilliance, the entire Rangers team displayed remarkable character and resolve to thwart Athletic Bilbao’s offensive endeavors. After Pröpper’s dismissal for a foul on Iñaki Williams near the penalty area, their task became significantly more challenging. While the red card decision appeared strict, referee Istvan Kovacs remained consistent throughout a night filled with VAR interventions.
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Ferguson Praises Team’s Effort and Looks to Return Leg
Rangers manager Ferguson expressed his satisfaction with his team’s performance, stating, “I’m really proud of the effort and the commitment that my players showed tonight.” He emphasized the importance of remaining in the tie and conveyed optimism about their chances in the second leg, aiming to progress to the semi-finals.
Athletic Bilbao’s Dominance and Rangers’ Resilience
Following the red card, Rangers adopted a compact defensive structure against an Athletic Bilbao side aiming for Champions League qualification. While Athletic Bilbao dominated possession, exceeding 70%, they struggled to penetrate Rangers’ disciplined defense. Ferguson acknowledged Bilbao’s possession but highlighted his team’s priority: “I couldn’t care less if they had 100% possession, so long as we make sure we don’t concede.”
Missed Opportunities and Bilbao’s Frustration
Maroan Sannadi had several opportunities to break the deadlock for Athletic Bilbao, but a combination of Kelly’s sharp reflexes and inaccurate finishing kept them at bay. Despite registering 19 shots, only three tested Kelly. Rangers’ primary objective was to secure a result to take to the second leg, focusing on defensive solidity over attacking ambition.
Bilbao Showdown Looms
Rangers concluded the match with nine men after Sterling was stretchered off late in the game, further emphasizing their defensive ordeal. However, they withstood the pressure and earned a valuable draw, setting up a crucial return fixture in Bilbao. Ferguson conveyed a determined message: “We’ll go and give it our best shot,” indicating Rangers’ intent to compete for a place in the Europa League semi-finals in the Basque Country.