The UEFA Europa League Round of 16 delivered a thrilling spectacle as Rangers secured a historic 3-1 victory over Fenerbahçe SK at the Şücrü Saracoğlu Stadium. This marked the first time the Turkish giants had lost to a Scottish team, putting Rangers in a commanding position ahead of the return leg at Ibrox.
Fast Start Gives Rangers the Edge
Despite Fenerbahçe’s strong domestic form, Rangers arrived in Istanbul with a game plan to unsettle their hosts. Interim manager Barry Ferguson opted for a three-at-the-back formation, a tactical move that paid off immediately. Within just six minutes, Cyriel Dessers took advantage of poor defending to round goalkeeper İrfan Can Eğribayat and slot the ball home. Although defender Çağlar Söyüncü made a last-ditch attempt to clear, the ball had already crossed the line, silencing the Turkish crowd.
Fenerbahçe Responds but Rangers Hold Firm
Falling behind so early, the hosts sought a quick response. Strikers Youssef En-Nesyri and Edin Džeko both had chances to equalize, but it was substitute Alexander Djiku who restored parity. Latching onto a flicked ball from a corner, Djiku showed incredible composure to hook the ball past Jack Butland, giving Fenerbahçe hope of turning the match around.
However, just before halftime, Rangers struck again. Václav Černý and Dessers combined beautifully, with the Belgian forward setting up the Czech winger, who calmly slotted the ball past Eğribayat. This goal stunned the home fans and ensured Rangers went into the break with their lead restored.
VAR Drama and Missed Chances
The second half promised an attacking onslaught from Fenerbahçe, but instead, it was Rangers who found the back of the net again—twice. Unfortunately for Dessers, both his goals were ruled out by VAR for offside, denying him a second of the night.
Fenerbahçe had chances of their own but struggled with their finishing. Their wastefulness was punished in the 80th minute when Rangers hit them on the counter. Černý, who had been a menace all night, raced forward and calmly slotted home his second goal of the night, sealing a famous victory for the Scottish side.
Rangers in Control Ahead of Ibrox Clash
With this victory, Rangers have now lost just one of their last eight UEFA Europa League away matches, making them strong favorites to advance to the quarter-finals. The return leg at Ibrox promises an electric atmosphere, but with a two-goal cushion, Rangers are in a prime position to complete the job.
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