Russell Martin’s competitive debut as Rangers Head Coach delivered drama, excitement, and a two-goal cushion — but perhaps most importantly, it delivered belief.
On a warm Govan night that marked the first real glimpse of Martin’s Rangers in action, the Light Blues showed flashes of attacking intent, moments of vulnerability, and ultimately two moments of magic that sealed a vital first-leg win over Panathinaikos.
A Mix of Excitement and Nerves
There was a buzz around Ibrox before kick-off — part excitement, part apprehension. Fans were finally getting to see what Russell Martin’s Rangers looked like when the shackles were off and the result actually mattered.
The starting eleven held few surprises. It was the same side that had started the recent bounce games behind closed doors, though the inclusion of Kieran Dowell raised a few eyebrows. In fairness, Martin didn’t have many other midfield options available — and perhaps, on the night, that was a blessing in disguise.
What followed was a chaotic but entertaining 90 minutes that showed both the risks and rewards of Martin’s new philosophy.
Fast Start, Then Fragile
The opening seven minutes were electrifying. Rangers zipped the ball about confidently, playing with purpose and tempo. Possession was sharp and progressive — a clear departure from the ponderous play of previous seasons. It looked like the start of something special.
But after that early burst, the old defensive frailties crept back in.
Sloppy touches and risky passes gave Panathinaikos encouragement, and Rangers found themselves scrambling. Jack Butland, yet again, proved his worth with a string of outstanding stops, and a huge slice of luck saw the Greeks hit the post from just three yards out. The danger signs were there, but super Jack Butland was back.
Raskin looked off the pace and was booked early. Curtis was hesitant. Aarons inverted constantly from left-back — an interesting experiment, but one that didn’t quite click in the first 45.
By half-time, Rangers fans around Ibrox were already discussing potential changes. But Martin saw things differently — and he was absolutely right.
A Second Half to Remember
The same eleven returned for the second half, and almost immediately looked revitalised. Whether it was a few tactical tweaks or a well-timed half-time team talk, the difference was clear.
None more so than Findlay Curtis.
The 19-year-old Academy graduate had looked nervous in the first half, unsure whether to take on his man or play safe. But something clicked after the break. He suddenly looked fearless — and when the ball came to him on the left, he took one perfect touch inside, left his marker for dead, and bent a stunning 30-yard strike into the far corner.
Ibrox erupted. This was a goal that will live long in the memory — a magical European moment from a young winger who has dreamed of nights like this.
And just minutes later, Curtis was again at the heart of the action. His clever positioning drew a clumsy foul from Giorgos Vagiannidis, who was already on a booking. The red card came out, and Rangers had both the lead and a man advantage.
Gassama Delivers on the Hype
With fresh legs introduced, the excitement level only ramped up.
Djeidi Gassama — the man many had tipped as this summer’s wildcard — came on for his debut and immediately lit up the game. Direct, unpredictable, and full of tricks, he terrorised the Panathinaikos defence. He went outside, cut inside, crossed, shot — and then, like Curtis before him, delivered a moment of magic.
Another stunning long-range strike from the left-hand side curled past the goalkeeper and into the net. Two goals from distance. Two statement moments. Rangers were flying.
He’s raw. He’s unpredictable. But he’s got the kind of energy and flair that Ibrox craves. Gassama looks like he could become a real fan favourite.
Half-Time in the Tie, But a Whole Lot of Promise
It’s important not to get carried away. This was just the first leg, and Panathinaikos will be a different beast in Athens next week. But this was a big result — and more than that, it felt like a fresh start.
Russell Martin got his first win. Curtis got his dream goal. Gassama announced himself in style. And while there’s still plenty to fix — including some sloppy defensive moments and questionable decision-making under pressure — this was a performance that gave fans real hope.
Rangers were brave. They were bold. And for once, they were fun to watch.
Final Thoughts
There’s still a long road ahead in Europe, but this was a huge step in the right direction. The tie isn’t over, and the return leg in Athens will be a massive test. But if Martin’s side can tighten up at the back and keep delivering moments of brilliance like we saw from Curtis and Gassama — who knows how far this team could go?
We’ll find out next week. But for now, we savour this one.
🔵 FT: Rangers 2-0 Panathinaikos
⚽ Curtis (67’)
⚽ Gassama (80’)
🟥 Vagiannidis (72’)
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