Jack Butland’s heroics in the penalty shootout secured Rangers a spot in the Europa League quarterfinals, despite Fenerbahce overturning a 3-1 first-leg deficit at Ibrox.
The Rangers goalkeeper denied Dusan Tadic and Fred from the spot, while Mert Hakan Yandas sent his attempt over the crossbar, triggering celebrations both on the pitch and in the stands.
Barry Ferguson’s men had returned from Istanbul with a strong advantage after an excellent display, but they struggled to replicate that intensity at home as their poor run in front of their own supporters continued.
Sebastian Szymanski scored twice, once in each half, to bring the visitors level on aggregate. Jose Mourinho’s side pushed for a decisive goal, with Tadic narrowly missing the target and Youssef En-Nesyri denied by a last-ditch tackle from James Tavernier.
Vaclav Cerny was Rangers’ standout performer, causing problems for the opposition defense and testing goalkeeper Irfan Can Egribayat on multiple occasions. However, neither side could find a winning goal before extra time, where Cerny and Tavernier came close again for the hosts.
In the penalty shootout, Tavernier, Cerny, and Tom Lawrence converted their attempts, securing a meeting with Athletic Bilbao in the last eight after the Spanish side overcame Roma.
Despite this being the first time Rangers have suffered four consecutive home defeats, the overwhelming feeling at Ibrox was relief and joy as Ferguson’s squad held their composure under pressure.
Rangers dig deep in another European thriller
While their domestic form has been disappointing, Rangers’ European campaign has provided a much-needed highlight, delivering another dramatic night in Glasgow.
The moment Yandas’ penalty soared over the bar, the stadium erupted, bringing an end to a nerve-wracking 120 minutes filled with tension, frustration, and anticipation.
Rangers began the match with energy, with Cerny’s direct attacking play causing issues for Fenerbahce’s defense. However, the tide shifted when Szymanski met Filip Kostic’s cross with a clinical volley, swinging the momentum towards the Turkish side.
Mourinho’s men controlled the second half, and when Szymanski prodded in his second goal in the 73rd minute, they appeared poised to complete their comeback.
A controversial moment in extra time saw Nicolas Raskin challenge Yandas in the box, with Fenerbahce protesting for a penalty. However, referee Espen Eskas waved play on, and VAR chose not to intervene, much to Mourinho’s frustration.
Rangers, under sustained pressure, showed resilience to force a penalty shootout before demonstrating the composure needed to emerge victorious.
Ferguson will need to address concerns, particularly the team’s struggles at home, but he has instilled a renewed sense of belief within the squad and among the supporters.
Focus shifts to domestic challenge
Rangers will have to manage without Mohamed Diomande and John Souttar for their quarter-final first leg against Athletic Bilbao, as both players received bookings that resulted in suspensions.
Before their European test, they face a crucial challenge in Sunday’s Old Firm derby at Celtic Park. With little time to recover, Ferguson’s squad must quickly regroup for a vital match against their league-leading rivals.
What they said
Rangers interim head coach Barry Ferguson on TNT Sports:
“The team showed immense character, and that’s something we must continue moving forward. I’m just delighted we made it into the quarter-finals.
“Character has been lacking, but now the players are listening and working hard. There’s still a lot to improve, but tonight’s display is exactly what my teams are built on.
“When you play against top-quality opposition, you will have to endure tough moments. But I’m proud of the players and thrilled for the entire club.”
Fenerbahce head coach Jose Mourinho on TNT Sports:
“Over 90 minutes, we were the better team. Over 120 minutes, we deserved to win.
“I was honest after the first match and admitted we made mistakes and deserved to lose. But this time, I must say we were superior.
“We did everything we could to secure victory, but the referee and VAR’s decisions led to penalties. I feel for my players, as they dreamed of advancing, but I’m proud of their efforts.”
