Rangers, the league winners last season, are on the back foot so far this term following Celtic’s resurgence in domestic contests. The Hoops have already conquered the League Cup crown and are also maintaining a three-point cushion at the top of the Premiership standings. While the Gers have been impressive in Europe, it’s high time for them to step up the show and shatter the Hoops’ treble hopes.
The Gers were relentless under Steven Gerrard as they had little threat en route to claiming the silverware. They defeated Celtic in their Ibrox meeting, however, a 3-0 humiliation at Parkhead exposed a few tactical frailties under new boss Giovanni van Bronckhorst. The Bears failed to grind out results from close contests, also their lack of attacking intent on the road resulted in setbacks in recent games.
Celtic, on the other hand, have been majestic of late and the two upcoming Glasgow derbies would decide Rangers‘ title fate. It’s a must-win tie for the Light Blues next weekend, whereas the Hampden Park semi-final on April 17 should decide their Cup destiny. Van Bronckhorst must motivate his men to grab the glory for the first time since 2009.
What Is Realistic For Rangers In Terms Of Silverware?
Meanwhile, the Hoops had their monopoly in Scotland under Brendan Rodgers and Neil Lennon. Despite losing the grip for a year, they are back to their absolute best under Ange Postecoglou overcoming early jitters. They have been fairly consistent, something the Gers have failed to showcase this year in the domestic competitions.
But the scenario is quite the opposite in Europe as they not only made it to the knockouts but also eliminated Borussia Dortmund and Red Star Belgrade before sealing a battle against SC Braga in the Europa League quarter-final. Rangers defeated the Portuguese side a couple of years ago prior to the pandemic and the fans, therefore, are cautiously optimistic for a place in the semi-finals.
Although a successful European campaign would increase the nation’s coefficient, the Light Blues have punched above their weight and must script a miracle to win the title. A domestic double is more realistic than the Europa League feat defeating the big guns like Barcelona, Atalanta, Lyon or RB Leipzig.
The club had a busy winter with an array of new signings including Wales maestro Aaron Ramsey on loan from Juventus. The veteran midfield ace is still attuning to the demands of the Scottish game, but his mastery and excellence might help Rangers write a success story in the coming days.
