Rangers: Derek McInnes makes immediate Philippe Clement prediction after 1-0 loss v Benfica
Rangers might have a better chance of winning a tie like the one against Benfica one year from now, according to Derek McInnes.
The Kilmarnock manager made the prediction immediately after the Gers lost 1-0 to the Portuguese giants on Thursday (14 March) thanks to Rafa Silva’s goal.
Benfica won the Europa League round- of-16 clash 3-2 on aggregate, with the two clubs having drawn the first leg 2-2.
“Benfica just had better forward players than Rangers,” McInnes said on TNT Sports (7.50pm, 14 March). “The goal sucked the life out of Rangers, they never really responded.
“There’s no shame in losing to a team like this. Maybe in a year, Philippe Clement’s side might have a better shot in a tie like this.”
Philippe Clement can be proud of Rangers players despite Benfica loss
The second leg encounter at Ibrox was set up perfectly, with the two European giants having played out a 2-2 thriller in Portugal in their first meeting.
The home supporters were in full voice for the early European kick-off in Glasgow, with the two sides unable to be separated for over an hour.
But Benfica’s Silva finally broke the deadlock in the 66th minute, with the scoring ending there as the visitors secured progression into the next round.
Despite the defeat, Clement can be proud of his players, with Benfica undoubtedly in with a great chance of going on to lift the trophy this season given their talented squad.
The manager will, however, still be very disappointed that a quadruple is now off the cards, with the Gers in with a chance of Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup silverware, having already won the League Cup this season.
The future is certainly looking bright at Ibrox, and the man in the dugout deserves a lot of credit for the positive situation.
In other Rangers news, a Gers debut is surely close for one youngster as a Borna Barisic competition claim is made.
For more Rangers news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.