Rangers turned up the heat in Govan as Russell Martin’s men tore Viktoria Plzen apart with a blistering 3-0 win in the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round.
Djeidi Gassama was the headline act with a red-hot double, while new signing Oliver Antman dazzled on debut and set the tone for a ruthless performance. After a frustrating draw against Motherwell and some tough post-match words from the manager, fans were looking for a response. They got it – loud and clear.
Russell Martin didn’t just talk tough. He made bold, ruthless changes. And it worked.
Gassama: Goals, Grit and Game-Changer
Four goals in three European games. That’s the Gassama stat line so far – and he’s only just getting started.
Against Viktoria Plzen, the young winger thrived in a system that finally played to his strengths. With real support from both flanks and midfielders breaking lines, Gassama had the freedom to run riot. His first goal was a composed finish after a slick exchange with Dessers, and his second was a perfect back-post header after a pinpoint delivery from Antman.
It’s not just his output – it’s the way he terrorises defences. Plzen simply couldn’t live with him.
Antman’s Debut Lights Up Ibrox
Rangers fans didn’t have to wait long to see what Oliver Antman is all about. The Finnish winger, signed just 24 hours before kick-off, was thrown straight into the starting XI – and looked like he’d been part of the squad for months.
He was everywhere. Quick, aggressive, clever on the ball – and with a clear understanding of space and timing. He nearly scored himself, but his standout moment was that first-time cross for Gassama’s second goal. A textbook example of modern wing play. He even won the penalty after being played in by Gassama, using his pace to beat the defender before being brought down.
It was a debut to remember – and a warning to the rest of Europe.
Martin Backs Up His Words With Action
After the disappointing draw at Fir Park, Martin didn’t hide his frustration – questioning the mentality and standards of the squad. But the big question was: would he act?
He did.
Tavernier, Raskin, Dowell and Danilo were all out of the starting XI. In came Jefte, Cameron, Dessers and Antman. Martin tried to suggest it was just “rotation” – but the message was clear: if you don’t perform, you don’t play.
It was brave. And it worked.
Dessers Steps Up
Credit where it’s due: Cyriel Dessers delivered his best performance in a Rangers shirt.
His hold-up play was strong, he pressed hard, and his movement dragged defenders out of position all night. The link-up for Gassama’s opener was smart, and he won the physical battle in and around the box. When the chance came from the spot, he stepped up confidently and slotted it home.
This is the Dessers fans want to see – and need to see more of.
Cameron Brings the Spark Midfield Needed
Lyall Cameron added something that’s been sorely lacking: tempo. He moved the ball quickly, pressed with energy, and was involved in several attacking moves – including the build-up to Antman’s penalty.
It was a hugely encouraging first start, and the Ibrox faithful showed their appreciation with a standing ovation.
Defensive Stability Returns
It wasn’t just the attacking display that impressed. Defensively, Rangers looked solid and composed.
- Max Aarons put in his best performance yet at right-back – finally playing in his natural position.
- Nasser Djiga was unflappable. One superb block denied Plzen a way back into the match and his composure on the ball helped Rangers play out from the back.
- John Souttar quietly went about his business and handled the physical threat well.
- And Jefte deserves special praise. Back in the side, he provided natural balance on the left, linked well with Gassama and was solid defensively. There were a couple of misplaced passes, but the positives far outweighed the negatives.
Eyes on the Second Leg
A 3-0 advantage gives Rangers a strong platform heading to the Czech Republic, but the job’s not done yet. The return leg will be tricky, and complacency must be avoided.
Still, if Rangers bring even half the quality they showed at Ibrox, they’ll be heading into the Champions League play-off round with real momentum.
Final Word
This was the kind of performance Rangers fans have been craving: brave selections, high tempo, fast transitions, and clinical finishing. Russell Martin made the tough calls, and his players responded in style.
The bar has now been set. Keep this up – and Europe might just start taking notice.
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