In a one-sided affair that unfolded under the dazzling lights of Ibrox, Rangers FC took a commanding 3-0 lead over Viktoria Plzeň in the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round semi-final. This result not only keeps their impressive European unbeaten streak alive but also leaves the Czech visitors needing a miracle in the second leg.
🔥 Match Breakdown: Ruthless Rangers Put Plzeň to the Sword
🏃 Early Threats and Gassama’s Magic
The Czech side started defensively, but it didn’t take long before Oliver Antman, the new boy with blazing speed, flipped the script. His precision cross nearly gave Djeidi Gassama an early header, but the best was yet to come.
At just 14 minutes, a moment of brilliance unfolded. Gassama danced past three defenders with a single killer pass, Dessers gave it back on a golden one-two, and Gassama curled a beauty past the towering Florian Wiegele (6ft 9in!).
🎯 Dessers Doubles the Lead
After Matej Vydra almost equalized, Rangers punished Plzeň for their missed chance. Antman’s electric run drew a penalty after Vydra clipped him, and Dessers coolly sent the keeper the wrong way. 2-0 by halftime, and Ibrox was rocking!
🧠 Second-Half Dominance and Tactical Brilliance
A curling effort from Mohamed Diomande rattled the bar just after the break, but Rangers weren’t done. In the 50th minute, Antman turned provider again, delivering a cross that Gassama headed home for his second of the night.
Substitutions followed, with Nicolas Raskin adding energy while Gassama and Antman exited to standing ovations—well-earned tributes to two standout performers.
🧤 Butland Stands Tall, Clean Sheet Secured
Late in the match, Plzeň’s Amar Memić attempted a long-range stunner, but Rangers’ Jack Butland swatted it away with ease to keep a well-deserved clean sheet.
The final whistle confirmed Rangers’ dominance, extending their unbeaten run to 10 games in European competition (W5, D5) and giving them a massive advantage heading into the second leg.
Viktoria Plzeň Face an Uphill Task in Return Leg
This was Plzeň’s first-ever loss to a Scottish side, and it couldn’t have come at a worse time. They’ll need nothing short of a miracle at home if they hope to turn the tide.
As UCL history reminds us, comebacks are part of the DNA of this competition — but Rangers look like they’re already halfway to the UCL group stage.
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🏁 Final Thoughts: Rangers Set the Pace in Europe
This wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. With stars like Antman, Dessers, and Gassama rising to the occasion, Rangers look poised for a deep UCL run. Kenyan fans watching from Nyayo Stadium to Eldoret will have their eyes glued to the return leg.
One foot in the final qualification round, Rangers now just need to stay composed to continue their climb back to the UEFA Champions League group stages.
