Michael Owen predicts score in Rangers clash v Slavia Prague
Michael Owen has predicted that Rangers will come back with a point from their first-leg match against Slavia Prague this evening.
It’s an early kick-off from the Czech Republic, with Rangers looking to make the quarter-finals of the competition.
Steven Gerrard would surely take a 1-1 draw in tonight’s away leg and that’s exactly what Michael Owen thinks will happen.
Writing in his regular column on BetVictor, Owen said, “Newly crowned Scottish Champions Rangers travel to Prague still undefeated in this season’s Europa League.
“The Glaswegian side have played some of their best football in this competition, defeating big names along the way.
“However, one thing that has been much different from their domestic form has been goals conceded. The Gers have only let in nine in the league, whilst in Europe they’ve conceded 12.
“So, whilst I think the visitors have more than enough to score here, I think they may have to settle for taking a draw back to Glasgow.”
Defence is key
The Round of 32 tie against Antwerp might have been thrilling to watch but the Gers defence was a worry.
This season has been built on a solid backline – as Owen points out – and Gerrard will be looking to keep things tight tonight.
Conceding five in a two-legged Europa League tie isn’t always going to end in triumph.
James Tavernier is still out but things are better at the other end with Kemar Roofe spotted back in training ahead of the game.
A 1-1 draw would be a brilliant result and would make Gers the favourites in the second leg at Ibrox next week.
The bookies have Slavia Prague slightly shading it tonight. They’re 7/5 for the win while Rangers are 2-1 to spring an away shock.
The draw is the least likely result according to the bookies at 9/4.
However, the bookies do have Gers as the favourites to qualify at 4/6. A 1-1 draw would make these odds shrink.
In other Rangers news, ‘You know something?’ – Ally McCoist makes Rangers claim ahead of Slavia Prague EL clash