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Rangers secure Champions League qualification

Rangers advance to face Viktoria Plzen after drawing with Panathinaikos, winning 3-1 on aggregate.

July 30, 2025 at 08:05 PM

Panathinaikos 1-1 Rangers (Agg: 1-3): Djeidi Gassama scores again as Gers progress in Champions League qualifying

Rangers advance in Champions League qualifying after a tense draw with Panathinaikos.

Rangers secure Champions League progression with draw against Panathinaikos

Rangers drew 1-1 with Panathinaikos in Athens, securing a 3-1 aggregate victory to progress in the Champions League qualifying round. Filip Duricic scored first for Panathinaikos after a prolonged VAR check, but Djeidi Gassama equalized less than a minute after coming off the bench. Rangers goalkeeper Jack Butland made crucial saves, maintaining the team's two-goal aggregate lead as they continue their quest for Champions League football. Coach Russell Martin and analyst Kris Boyd highlighted the importance of the match, expressing both pride in the team's resilience and the need for improvement as they prepare for their next challenge against Viktoria Plzen.

Key Takeaways

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Rangers progress in Champions League qualifying with a 3-1 aggregate win.

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Gassama scores crucial equalizer shortly after substitution.

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Butland's goalkeeping proved vital in maintaining the aggregate lead.

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Rangers face Viktoria Plzen next for a spot in the group stages.

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Coach Russell Martin emphasizes the team's growth and potential.

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Defensive vulnerabilities could be a concern against tougher opponents.

"To be five weeks into the process, from where they were to where they are is incredible."

Russell Martin describes the significant progress made by Rangers in a short period.

"They found a way to get through and that's all that matters for Rangers right now."

Kris Boyd highlights the importance of winning in challenging matches for Rangers.

This match reflects both the potential and the challenges facing Rangers as they attempt to reclaim their status in European football. Gassama’s quick impact off the bench signals his growing influence on the team, yet the defensive lapses against Panathinaikos highlight a need for sharper performance going forward. The positive takeaway is Rangers' ability to adapt under pressure, but reliance on key players like Butland may present risks against stronger opponents in future rounds. As they prepare for Viktoria Plzen, the pressure for improvement will weigh on both the players and the coaching staff.

Highlights

Gassama's quick impact signals his growing influence on Rangers.
Butland’s saves made a crucial difference for Rangers.
Rangers' defense faced questions they must answer going forward.
The team must tighten up if they wish to compete at a higher level.

Potential defensiveness concerns for Rangers

Rangers showed vulnerabilities in defense during the match against Panathinaikos. As they progress, they must address these issues to avoid being punished by stronger teams.

Rangers now have the chance to build on their success as they aim for European glory.

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rangers panathinaikos Champions League football Viktoria Plzen football sports Champions League

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