Rangers manager Derek McInnes with his hand resting on his chest

Rangers manager Derek McInnesImago

Why Rangers face risk of 'unthinkable' scenario as update shared from Ibrox

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20 Aug 2026, 4:13 pm

Rangers face an "unthinkable" prospect as they prepare to take on Jablonec in the Europa Conference League on Thursday evening.

The Gers were expecting to play a Europa League playoff tie the same evening.

However, last week's aggregate defeat to Jagiellonia means they dropped into UEFA's third-tier competition.

Rangers now have a challenge on their hands even qualifying for that, as they take on a team that finished fifth in the Czech First League last season.

The playoff qualifier second leg is scheduled to take place at Stadion Strelnice next Thursday.

And if Derek McInnes' men fail to advance, it will mean the club missing out on potentially millions of pounds.

Why crashing out of Europe is unthinkable for Derek McInnes

Rangers are accustomed to famous European nights at Ibrox, most notably in their run to the Europa League final in 2022.

The Gers have also enjoyed seasons in the Champions League, yet it is the Europa Conference League or bust this season.

While nobody wants to be competing in that competition, it does present a realistic shot at some continental silverware.

That is assuming McInnes' side first get past Jablonec.

Previewing the game live from Ibrox on Sky Sports News a few hours ahead of kick off, reporter Adam Binnie said: "It's a massive game for McInnes.

"The idea Rangers will not be competing in any form of continental football this season is unthinkable.

"You have to go back to 2017, when Rangers were still rebuilding, to find the last time they failed to qualify for the league or group phase."

That near-decade streak is under threat unless the Gers put on an improved European showing on Thursday.

How much Rangers could earn from UEFA Conference League as Jablonec showdown here

What was Rangers' European record at Ibrox last season?

Rangers drew 1-1 with Jagiellonia last week, which saw them eliminated 3-2 on aggregate.

Last season, the Gers drew one, lost two and won one of their four Europa League games at Ibrox.

That was a disappointing return and explains why they were dumped out early on.

It goes without saying that Ibrox needs to become a fortress again, ideally starting with a comfortable win on Thursday evening.

Derek McInnes

Rangers Football Club