Rangers made a sensational start to their Champions League qualifying campaign, blowing Panathinaikos away with a 2-0 win at Ibrox. This victory was a nice welcome to their new head coach, Russell Martin. The match saw a crucial performance from goalkeeper Jack Butland, whose series of impressive saves kept Rangers in contention during challenging moments. The 19-year-old Curtis made a magnificent effort from distance in the second half. Only minutes after being subbed in, Djeidi Gassama proved his impact by recording the first goal of his young career.
From the opening whistle that day, Ibrox was a cauldron of passion. A sell-out crowd was on-hand to witness the beginning of the Russell Martin era. Rangers were under pressure from the off with Butland called into action as he denied a series of efforts on goal. His big saves were just what the doctor ordered, giving the defense and team time to get into the game.
A Test of Resilience
Instead, the Rangers tripped and fell searching for their footing well into the first half. Indeed, they didn’t even register their first shot on target until 36 minutes into the match. Mohamed Diomande had a chance from 20 yards, but Panathinaikos goalkeeper Bartlomiej Dragowski pulled off an incredible save.
Midfielder Nicolas Raskin sparked hope among the fans early on by bursting forward, but his effort narrowly missed the far post. Butland continued to be the most impressive player for Rangers. He forced an important save soon after, denying Nemanja Maksimovic from pouncing on the rebound that ricocheted off the post.
Despite all of these obstacles, Martin’s side was able to maintain their poise. Georgios Vagiannidis of Panathinaikos was sent off for a high challenge on Curtis. This incident made a second Rangers goal all but certain.
Curtis and Gassama Make Their Mark
In the second half, Curtis hit a beautiful long-range effort to double the lead. The shot found the back of the net, putting Rangers in front and firing up the home support. His performance was a great reminder that he is undeniably talented and that there is so much room for growth, and the squad is too talented.
Shortly after Curtis’s goal, Djeidi Gassama replaced him and quickly made an impact by lashing in a second goal for Rangers. This was a great first start for Gassama, who showed that he’s prepared to do his part to help the team succeed.
“We had a few tough moments early in the first half after a good start, and then a few sticky moments because we were playing against a really good team with good players and a good coach.” – Russell Martin
With this win, Rangers took a very important advantage heading into the second leg in Athens. They must now wait to face either Viktoria Plzen or Servette in the third qualifying round.
A Promising Start for Russell Martin
Martin’s first competitive match in charge of the Gers couldn’t have gone any better. He handed debuts to three of his summer signings: Nasser Djiga, Max Aarons, and Joe Rothwell. Even more impressive than the team’s resiliency through some tough stretches, though, was the palpable support from the home crowd that greeted every challenge and crossroads.
“I was really proud and really pleased with the players for the way they got through it, and also the crowd, for the way they stuck with the team through a few difficult moments, which was incredible.” – Russell Martin
Rangers to get ready for a tough slate of regular season home matches. A great occasion Martin is sure that this tie will offer a truly brilliant experience for his side as they progress.
“I think as a group, we’ll be much better for tonight.” – Russell Martin
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