BBC man reacts after what he saw in Rangers v Aris Limassol Europa League clash
The Europa League campaign of Rangers is hanging in the balance after a disappointing 1-1 draw against Aris Limassol at Ibrox on 30 November.
The missed opportunity to secure a win and seal qualification with a game to spare has complicated their ambitions.
Currently sitting second in Group C, Gers now face the challenging task of defeating leaders Real Betis away on matchday six to secure the top spot or securing second place by matching Sparta Prague’s result against Aris.
BBC journalist Andy Campbell wrote on 1 December, “The opportunity was there for Rangers – beat bottom club Aris Limassol and seal Europa League football in the second half of the season with a game to spare.
“A disappointing 1-1 draw at Ibrox has not destroyed that ambition – but it has certainly made it significantly more difficult.”
Tough one
Philippe Clement acknowledged that his team were nervous and that did seem evident during the draw and it surely is an area to address.
The need for a victory against Real Betis comes just three days before their crucial Viaplay Cup final against Aberdeen, leaving little room for resting weary legs.
Remaining focused on their upcoming games is imperative for their European ambitions and domestic success.
A victory against Betis could secure a favourable draw in the Europa League knockout stage while winning the cup final enhances their domestic standing.
Clement must address the team’s nervousness and lack of cohesion to ensure optimal performance, emphasising the need for concentration and commitment to navigate these pivotal encounters successfully.
They’re already playing catch up to Celtic in the league and cannot afford to struggle on other fronts as well otherwise it makes sense to just write this season off.
In other Rangers news, a player is now in a ‘Worse’ situation than before as surgery is unavoidable, according to exclusive coverage by an injury expert.