Rangers travelled to Portugal to face Braga in the second leg with a slender 3-2 advantage. The Scottish giants produced a classic away performance as they managed a 1-0 win on the night to go through to the next round in the Europa League.
The away team had a shaky start, but they settled into their shape well and created some good chances on the counter. Kamberi and Kent should have scored in the opening half-hour of the game. It was Hagi though who squandered the most significant chance as he missed a spot-kick just before half time.
Braga continued to dominate possession, but Rangers always carried that threat on the counter. Ryan Kent scored after a brilliant pass from Hagi found him. The Bears dug deep to keep a clean sheet in the end.
Rangers Players Rated In Their Narrow Win Vs Braga
Allan McGregor 7
Made one sharp reflex save in the first half through a header. Apart from that wasn’t tested much. His handling was spot on.
Borna Barisic 7
The tricky Trincao troubled him on a few occasions, but Barisic did his job more often than not. Wasn’t able to go forward like he usually does in the domestic games but made some good runs forward.
Connor Goldson 8.5
Was strong, reliable and authoritative at the back. Was a dominant force in the air and cleared quite a few dangers.
George Edmundson 8
Had a shaky start to the game but played the role of a classic no-nonsense defender perfectly. Kept things simple and was at the right place to make some crucial interventions.
James Tavernier 6
Was getting sucked out of position defensively. Needs to be more aware of what’s around him. Nevertheless, he put in a decent shift and worked hard for his side.
Steven Davis 6.5
Had a mixed game as he gave the possession away cheaply on a few occasions. Defensively, he was solid and shielded the back four well. His reading of the game stood out as he was often providing cover to the defenders.
Ryan Jack 7
Helped Barisic on the left to keep things tight. Worked hard like always and played with good energy. Wasn’t able to produce much in terms of attacking play but did his job defensively.
Scott Arfield 8
Made one good run in the first half and set up Kamberi well. Put in a workhorse performance again as he was almost everywhere on the pitch. Played a part in some of Rangers’ attacks.
Ryan Kent 7.5
Wasn’t able to get in the game much in the first 45 but missed a great chance after Hagi squared the ball to him. Took his opportunity well in the second half as he used his pace to great effect and finished smartly on the run with his left foot. Hopefully, this performance will bring much-needed confidence after some underwhelming displays.
Ianis Hagi 7
Looked bright in the first half and showed great endeavour to create one brilliant chance for Kent. Guilty of missing the penalty as he failed to place it in a corner. Looked nervous before taking it. Nevertheless, he produced the magic moment in the second half with a smart pass for Kent.
Florian Kamberi 6
Was too eager to make his runs and was getting caught offside. Had one big chance in the first half which he missed. Stretched play from time to time. Needs to work on timing his runs. Kept the defenders occupied.
Substitutes
Joe Aribo 5
Worked hard down the right and provided fresh legs.
Sheyi Ojo 5
Showed good energy and had one decent attempt at goal from a distance.
