Rangers Silence Critics with Big Win Over Viktoria Plzen
Pressure was building on Rangers and their boss Russell Martin after a shaky league showing, but the team answered loud and clear at Ibrox. A 3-0 drubbing of Viktoria Plzen in the UEFA Champions League qualifier gave fans a night to remember and tossed away some recent doubts. Martin, feeling the heat after calling out his squad's mentality during a 1-1 Scottish Premiership draw with Motherwell, watched his players step up when it mattered.
Expectations were high after last season’s second-place finish in Scotland, and the stakes were clear—the Champions League group stage was within reach, but only if Rangers showed real toughness. The squad responded, not just in effort but in attacking style. Plzen, who know a thing or two about European nights themselves after finishing runners-up in the Czech league, couldn't cope with Rangers’ energy and intensity from the first whistle.
Gassama's Streak Continues as Rangers Push for Europe
One of the brightest spots was new recruit Gassama, whose signing had raised eyebrows just a few weeks back. He’s quickly silenced the doubters, now having scored in every Champions League qualifier so far. His latest goal set the tone against Plzen, and it’s pretty clear he’s fast becoming a fan favorite—not just for his goals but for his all-in attitude on the pitch.
The rest of the squad took their cues from him. Rangers' movement was sharp, passing crisp, and their willingness to press left Plzen looking rattled and short on answers. The clean sheet wasn’t just about the defense holding firm; it sent a message about the kind of steel Martin has demanded since questioning the team’s mental strength.
This wasn’t just any European night either. The win puts Rangers in a strong position ahead of the second leg and keeps the dream of rejoining Europe's elite alive. Next up could be a playoff against Salzburg or Brugge—two teams that are no pushovers. Rangers have already guaranteed a Europa League group stage spot after knocking out Panathinaikos, but the atmosphere around Ibrox says it all: fans want the big show, the Champions League.
Not everyone agrees with Martin’s public approach to motivation, though. His straight-talking response to underwhelming performances has split opinions in the stands and online. Some say it lights a fire, while others worry it piles on pressure. Either way, his team answered this time.
The 3-0 win sets up a much-anticipated return leg and, if they keep this up, the Rangers faithful might get that European adventure they've been craving. Hard to argue with the noise at Ibrox—the mood is back on the up and the team look hungry for more.
August 6 2025 0
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