Rangers Triumph Over Union Saint-Gilloise To Advance In Europa League Last 16

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Rangers have secured a spot in the last 16 of the Europa League after defeating Union Saint-Gilloise 2-1 at Ibrox Stadium. Nico Raskin and Vaclav Cerny scored for Rangers, ensuring their victory. Philippe Clement's team needed a win and favourable results elsewhere to bypass the play-offs. Nice helped by drawing 1-1 with Bodo/Glimt, allowing Rangers to advance automatically.

James Tavernier played a crucial role in Rangers' success, delivering an impressive cross that led to Raskin's goal in the 20th minute. His inswinging pass from the left was expertly headed back across the goal by Raskin. Although Union SG thought they had equalised through Franjo Ivanovic, VAR ruled him offside when he received the ball six yards out.

Early in the second half, Rangers were fortunate again when Tavernier blocked Mohammed Fuseini's shot in front of an open goal. This defensive effort proved vital as Cerny extended their lead by scoring from Cyriel Dessers' cutback after 54 minutes. Cerny nearly added another but hit the post from 25 yards out.

Union SG managed to pull one back with Kevin Mac Allister's header seven minutes before full-time. Despite this late challenge, Rangers held firm through five tense minutes of stoppage time to secure their place among the top eight teams.

This achievement marks Rangers' fifth progression from a major European competition group stage in six attempts. They reached the Europa League final in 2021-22 but fell short at the Champions League group stage in 2022-23. At home, Clement's side has lost only two of their last 14 Europa League matches, winning nine and drawing three.

Tavernier's assist for Raskin's goal was his third consecutive Europa League assist for Rangers, matching his total from his previous 35 games. He now shares the record for most assists in this competition for Rangers with Borna Barisic, both having eight assists each.

Future Challenges Await

Rangers finished above notable teams like Ajax, Real Sociedad, Roma, and Porto to reach this stage. In March, they will face potential opponents such as Jose Mourinho's Fenerbahce, Bodo/Glimt, Twente or Anderlecht in the last 16 of the Europa League.

The team's recent performances demonstrate their strength and resilience on home soil and set high expectations for their upcoming matches in Europe.