Rangers fought their way into the Champions League play-offs with a 4-2 aggregate victory over Viktoria Plzen, despite a tense 2-1 defeat in the second leg on August 12, 2025, at Doosan Arena in the Czech Republic.
The Scottish side held a 3-0 lead from the first leg, proving enough to advance, even as Plzen pushed hard. Lyall Cameron’s goal kept Rangers in control, earning them a shot at facing Club Brugge or Salzburg next.
Match Highlights and Goals
The second leg started quietly, but Viktoria Plzen struck first in the 41st minute when Rafiu Durosinmi beat Jefte to score from close range off a free kick.
Rangers struggled early, with Cyriel Dessers limping off injured after the break. Cameron leveled the score on the night in the 60th minute, redirecting a shot from Danilo into the net.
Plzen fought back late, with Svetozar Markovic heading in a goal in the 83rd minute, but it wasn’t enough. Rangers’ 3-0 first-leg win, driven by Djeidi Gassama’s brace and Dessers’ penalty, sealed the 4-2 aggregate triumph.
Key Moments and Team Changes
Rangers faced pressure throughout, with goalkeeper Jack Butland making crucial saves against Prince Adu and Milan Havel.
Manager Russell Martin tweaked the lineup, bringing in James Tavernier for the injured Max Aarons and Nicolas Raskin for Joe Rothwell.
Despite a lackluster domestic run—draws against Motherwell and Dundee—Rangers shone in Europe. Plzen missed several chances, finishing with 3.31 expected goals to Rangers’ 1.1, but couldn’t overturn the deficit.
Fan Reactions and Next Steps
Fans on X cheered the result, with one posting, “Rangers did it! Cameron’s goal was clutch—onto the play-offs!”.
Some criticized the shaky performance, but the £4.3m prize money and a play-off spot lifted spirits.
Rangers will face Club Brugge, who beat RB Salzburg 4-2 on aggregate, with the first leg at Ibrox on August 19, 2025.
What This Means
This win marks a turning point for Martin’s squad, despite domestic struggles. The Champions League play-offs offer prestige and cash, pushing Rangers closer to the league phase.
Butland’s heroics and Cameron’s first Gers goal highlighted resilience. Fans now hope for a stronger showing against Brugge as the season heats up.
Stay tuned for more updates on Rangers’ European journey!