Rangers to roll on in Europe?
The late heroics display by Rangers against Braga have set up a delicious tie with German outfit Bayer Leverkusen. Can Steven Gerrard’s men produce another European masterclass? Have a read of our preview here:
Keeping the dream alive
Rangers looked as though they were heading out of the Europa League when Braga took a two-goal lead at Ibrox but a stunning fightback gave them a priceless victory.
Ianis Hagi has been an inspirational addition to the squad. The Romanian may not be as good as his father, but he has so much flair defenders find it difficult to stop him.
He produced a dazzling performance that allowed Rangers to take a one-goal lead back to Portugal and then they produced a wonderful effort to keep a clean-sheet against the odds.
George Edmundson was recalled to the side for that fixture and the former Oldham defender came through with flying colours. Again, Steven Gerrard is being repaid by showing faith in the youngster who could have a big, big future perhaps even at international level should he continue the progress he has shown since moving north of the border.
Leverkusen will be a very difficult opponent and will be a lot harder to break down than Braga, but underestimate Gers at your peril. Even if their Europa League adventure ends here, they can at least take consolation that they progressed further than rivals Celtic, who crashed out with an embarrassing defeat against Copenhagen in the last round.
The form team
Leverkusen come into this Europa League last 16 match-up in great form.
The German side have won six of their last eight Bundesliga games, losing just once in that run.
They have moved into the top five and are within eight points of leaders Bayern. The draw at title challengers RB Leipzig is a testament to the strides they have made in recent weeks, making a Rangers victory look highly unlikely.
Top scorer Kevin Volland is one player to look out for as is Argentine Lucas Alario, but the latter is great form. Volland has netted nine times in the Bundesliga while assisting another seven making him a huge threat and one that Rangers must find a way to nullify.
Rangers vs Bayer Leverkusen betting tip
This season’s European adventure will be the highlight of the season for Gers fans. The overriding ability of this side to produce when required has been a delight to behold and they should be able to get some joy out of this Leverkusen side. With that in mind, we are backing both teams to score at odds of 7/10 with bet365.
