Rangers travel to the Czech Republic tonight with one foot already in the UEFA Champions League play-off round after a commanding 3-0 first-leg victory over Viktoria Plzen at Ibrox. Two goals from Djeidi Gassama and a Cyriel Dessers penalty gave Russell Martin’s men the perfect platform to finish the job.
Progress to the 3rd qualifying round has guaranteed Europa League group stage football for Rangers this season, but the focus is firmly on securing their place in the play-off round, where they will meet either Red Bull Salzburg or Club Brugge. The Belgian side currently hold a slender 1-0 advantage in their tie.
How to Watch
For supporters not making the journey to Plzen, the match is available to stream live:
- UK: Solid Sport – £12
- USA, Canada & Australia: Rangers TV
Team News – Raskin to Start?
Russell Martin is expected to name a line-up broadly similar to the side that took on Dundee at the weekend, but the midfield could see a significant change.
Nicolas Raskin has started the last two matches on the bench but has impressed with his impact after coming on in the second half. In contrast, Mohamed Diomande has struggled to influence games in recent outings. With a three-goal cushion, Martin may be tempted to start Raskin from the off, bringing extra energy, defensive solidity, and ball-winning ability in what could be a physically demanding European away tie.
If Raskin does start, the tactical shape will be interesting. His preferred No. 6 role is currently occupied by Joe Rothwell, who has looked assured in that position. However, Rothwell is no stranger to playing further forward – he featured regularly as a No. 8 for Leeds United last season. This could open the door for Martin to push Rothwell into the more advanced midfield slot vacated by Diomande, while allowing Raskin to anchor the midfield in his favoured position.
Predicted XI
Based on recent selections and Martin’s potential midfield reshuffle, Rangers could line up as follows:
Formation: (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper
Butland
Defence
Aarons
Djiga
Souttar
Jefte
Midfield
Raskin
Rothwell
Cameron
Forwards
Gassama
Dessers
Antman
With a healthy first-leg advantage, the priority will be to remain organised, avoid complacency, and look to kill off any early Plzen momentum. Another strong performance could see Rangers head into the weekend’s league action full of confidence – and just one step away from the Champions League group stage.
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