Match Preview for Athletic Bilbao v Rangers
Rangers’ exceptional rearguard motion at Ibrox final week means they’re nonetheless very a lot within the tie in opposition to Athletic Bilbao.
Having been diminished to 10 males following the Thirteenth-minute dismissal of Robin Propper for a poor problem on Inaki Williams, Rangers held the Basque side at bay for the remainder of a goalless encounter, thanks in part to a wonderful display from goalkeeper Liam Kelly.
Kelly excelled all through having been chosen forward of Jack Butland along with his crowning second the late penalty save from Alex Berenguer.
⛔️ | @liamm_kelly #UEL pic.twitter.com/r6PomCSBU1
— Rangers Soccer Membership (@RangersFC) April 15, 2025
Rangers confirmed their dedication as soon as once more on the weekend in a 2-2 draw at Aberdeen. Ross McCausland’s purple card 5 minutes earlier than halftime put them on the again foot and the sport appeared to have gone when Aberdeen moved 2-0 up 4 minutes later. However second half targets from Hamza Igamane and Ianis Hagi noticed them declare a 2-2 draw and delay the title social gathering for arch-rivals Celtic.
Athletic have had few such points over latest weeks and cemented fourth place in La Liga with a 3-1 win over Rayo Vallecano on the weekend.
Ernesto Valverde’s facet have misplaced simply considered one of their final 22 league video games and seem a positive guess to be taking part in Champions League soccer subsequent season.
And former Athletic winger Ibai Gomez doesn’t see Rangers inflicting an excessive amount of of a menace at San Mames – the venue for this 12 months’s Europa League ultimate.
He stated: “Athletic ought to strategy the match with Rangers with most confidence. If you’re an Athletic fan, that on these sorts of nights, San Mames is normally decisive. And the gamers comprehend it too.
“It is a squad with gamers who’ve numerous confidence and who lifted a weight off their shoulders final 12 months by successful the Copa del Rey.
“Neglect the actual fact the ultimate can be at San Mames – it has nothing to do with it. That may assistance on the day of the ultimate, however till we get there, it’s merely an additional motivation. It may well really be a burden as a result of individuals don’t recognize the issue of reaching the ultimate.
“And Rangers are going to be a really tough crew to play in opposition to.
“Within the first leg, they confirmed they defend their penalty space very properly and counter-attack very successfully. Athletic are taking part in a crew who gained’t be afraid. We’re dealing with a really powerful tie, however I hope and belief that San Mames can be decisive.”
