Rangers are set to host Romanian side FCSB on Thursday night in a crucial Europa League group stage match.
After a disappointing start to their domestic season and a heavy defeat in their previous European outing, the pressure is mounting on Rangers’ manager Philippe Clement.
As the Glasgow giants prepare for this encounter, they know they must deliver a strong performance to turn their fortunes around and regain momentum in both the league and Europe.
The 2024/25 campaign has not started well for Rangers, and their recent 1-0 defeat to Kilmarnock over the weekend has only intensified the scrutiny on Clement.
This loss was particularly damaging, as Celtic, their fiercest rivals, dropped points in a draw against Aberdeen. However, Rangers failed to capitalize on the opportunity, leaving them six points behind Celtic and Aberdeen in the Scottish Premiership.
Their Europa League form has been equally concerning. Their last European outing saw them suffer a 4-1 defeat to Lyon, further fueling questions about the team’s progress under Clement.
The lack of consistency and defensive frailties are evident, and with pressure mounting from fans and media alike, Clement must engineer a quick turnaround to save his job and keep Rangers in the hunt for European success.
FCSB’s Form and Momentum
While Rangers have been struggling, FCSB come into this match in excellent form. The Romanian side, formerly known as Steaua Bucuresti, have won their first two Europa League group stage matches, defeating RFS and PAOK, and are currently unbeaten in their last nine matches. This strong run of form makes FCSB a formidable opponent for Rangers.
FCSB’s consistency and ability to perform under pressure have been key factors in their success this season.
Although they had a mixed start to the 2024/25 campaign, they have found stability and momentum in recent weeks.
Their performances in Europe have been particularly impressive, and they will be looking to extend their unbeaten streak at Ibrox.
RECOMMENDED:
- Fenerbahce vs Manchester United: Mourinho Faces Old Trafford in Thrilling Europa League Clash
- Tottenham vs AZ Alkmaar: Preview, predictions and lineups
Team News: Rangers
The club will be missing a few key players for this crucial Europa League clash. Ridvan Yilmaz, Rabbi Matondo, and Oscar Cortes are all sidelined due to injury. However, there is some positive news as forward Danilo is close to making his return after a knee injury that has kept him out since August.
Despite their recent poor form, Clement is unlikely to make sweeping changes to the lineup that played against Kilmarnock. The return of Tom Lawrence offers a significant boost to Rangers, providing much-needed creativity and experience in the attacking midfield role. Lawrence will likely be joined by Nedim Bajrami, Vaclav Cerny, and Cyriel Dessers in a forward line that must deliver against FCSB.
Rangers’ defense, led by captain James Tavernier, will need to step up after some recent shaky performances, particularly in Europe. A more solid display at the back will be crucial if they are to secure a positive result.
Predicted Rangers lineup (4-2-3-1): Butland; Tavernier, Souttar, Propper, Jefte; Diomande, Raskin; Lawrence, Bajrami, Cerny; Dessers.
Team News: FCSB
FCSB head into the match in fine form but will be without their captain and creative maestro Darius Olaru, who is suspended after receiving a red card in their last match against PAOK. This will be a significant loss for the Romanians, as Olaru has been instrumental in orchestrating their attacking play this season.
In addition to Olaru’s absence, Siyabonga Ngezana is a doubt due to a muscle injury, while Adrian Sut will miss the match on compassionate leave. Despite these setbacks, FCSB have enough depth to field a strong team capable of competing with Rangers.
The player to watch for FCSB will be striker Daniel Birligea, who has scored in both of their Europa League matches so far. His form has been excellent, and he will pose a significant threat to Rangers’ defense. Clement may need to devise a specific plan to neutralize Birligea, whose confidence and finishing ability could make all the difference for the visitors.
Predicted FCSB lineup (4-2-3-1): Tarnovanu; Cretu, Chirices, M. Popescu, Radunovic; Edjouma, Lixandru; Stefanescu, Tanase, Miculescu; Birligea.
Key Matchups and Predictions
The key battle in this match will likely be between Rangers’ defense and FCSB’s attack. Rangers have struggled defensively, particularly in their last Europa League outing against Lyon, and they will need to improve dramatically to contain FCSB’s dangerous forward line, led by Birligea. Captain Tavernier and his fellow defenders must be at their best to prevent the Romanians from exploiting any gaps.
In midfield, Rangers will rely heavily on the experience of Tom Lawrence to drive their play and create opportunities. If Lawrence can dominate the midfield and supply quality service to Dessers and Cerny, Rangers stand a good chance of scoring and putting pressure on FCSB.
For FCSB, the absence of Olaru is a significant blow, but their midfield will still pose a challenge to Rangers. The likes of Edjouma and Tanase will look to control possession and provide support for Birligea up front.
Score Prediction: Rangers 2-1 FCSB
While Rangers’ recent form has been alarming, they still possess enough quality to win this match, especially at home. The pressure is on Philippe Clement to deliver a much-needed victory, and the Europa League could provide the respite Rangers need to regain some confidence.
FCSB will undoubtedly provide a tough test, but Rangers’ superior squad depth and home advantage should see them come out on top. A narrow 2-1 victory for Rangers seems likely, as they look to bounce back from their recent domestic disappointments and get their Europa League campaign back on track.
