Benfica 2 Rangers 2: Prompt response to pressing concerns

Benfica 2 Rangers 2: Prompt response to pressing concerns

Rangers produced a spirited result on the road as they held Benfica to a 2-2 draw in Lisbon. Philippe Clement’s side were in Europa League knockout stage action for the first time since finishing tournament runners-up in 2022. And they showed in spells why they deserve to be back among the last 16 of the competition this season. The Light Blues had to soak up initial pressure from the hosts but it was Tom Lawrence who sent the 3000 strong away end berserk with a header beyond Anatolii Trubin after just seven minutes.

Benfica equalized by a penalty kick from Angel Di Maria after John Souttar’s handball inside the box during first-half stoppage time. Rangers, who had defended courageously up to that moment, were severely hurt by that. However, their deficit would only last a few minutes as the Scots took the lead at halftime thanks to Dujon Sterling’s low cross from Fabio Silva.

Connor Goldson’s header past his own goalie on minute 67 gave the Portuguese powerhouses another equalizer.

Despite a few nervous moments, Rangers returned to Glasgow unhurt, setting the stage for another exciting match in seven days.

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