In a tense UEFA Europa League quarter-final first leg at Ibrox, Rangers defied the odds by holding Spanish giants Athletic Club to a 0-0 draw, despite playing over 75 minutes with just 10 men. A red card, a dramatic VAR intervention, and a heroic penalty save by Liam Kelly kept the dream alive for the Scottish side, who are still gunning for continental glory after domestic disappointment.
Early Drama: Pröpper Sees Red
Rangers came into this game knowing the Europa League is their final shot at silverware this season. But their aggressive start turned sour early when Robin Pröpper was controversially sent off in the 12th minute. His foul on Nico Williams initially drew a yellow card, but after a VAR review, referee István Kovács upgraded it to a straight red for denying a clear scoring chance.
The Rangers fans feared a long night with the odds now stacked heavily against them.
Kelly & the 10 Men Hold Firm
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Rangers remained defiant. Cyriel Dessers came close in the 23rd minute, unleashing a fierce strike that narrowly missed the target. Meanwhile, Athletic Club ramped up the pressure, but Liam Kelly, making his first start in this European campaign, stood tall.
He denied Maroan Sannadi with a fingertip save before calmly collecting Oihan Sancet’s powerful header. Rangers’ compact defence frustrated the visitors, who struggled to capitalise on their extra man for most of the night.
VAR Chaos & Kelly’s Heroics
Athletic had a golden opportunity in the 76th minute when Álex Berenguer appeared to fire them ahead with a brilliant finish. But the celebrations were cut short after VAR spotted an offside in the buildup.
Seconds later, another twist: a handball by Dujon Sterling gifted Athletic a penalty. Berenguer stepped up again, this time from the spot, but Kelly denied him with an instinctive leg save that sparked jubilation across Ibrox.
Second Leg Awaits: All Eyes on Bilbao
Athletic pressed hard in the closing stages, primarily through 12 minutes of added time, but could not find a way through. The goalless draw means Rangers head to the Basque Country still very much in the tie, albeit as underdogs.
A potential semi-final against Manchester United or Olympique Lyonnais awaits, but first, Rangers must summon the same grit and resilience in Bilbao to keep their European hopes alive.
Kenyan Fans: Bet Big on Bangbet!
As the Europa League action intensifies, Kenyan football lovers can get in on the thrill with Bangbet.com — the ultimate platform for live football betting. With high odds on every Europa League fixture, quick cashouts, and a user-friendly interface, Bangbet gives you more chances to win.
Sign up today, place bets on Rangers’ second-leg clash or any other UEL fixture, and enjoy unmatched excitement with Bangbet – Kenya’s home of top football odds.
Final Word
Rangers may be battered but not broken. They’ve kept their Europa League journey alive with a goalless draw and a standout performance from Liam Kelly. All roads now lead to Bilbao, where the battle for a semi-final ticket continues. Will the Gers defy the odds again? Time will tell — and Bangbet will be right there with you.
