Rangers Earn Hard-Fought Europa League Point with Draw in Prague

Rangers earn hard-fought Europa League point against Sparta Prague with backs-to-the-wall performance, nearly winning it late on.

In an intense battle in Prague, Rangers showcased their resilience and determination, earning a hard-fought point in the Europa League against Sparta. Despite facing numerous nerve-wracking moments, the Scottish team managed to hold on to a goalless draw, bringing their total points to four after three games.

Throughout the match, Rangers found themselves on the defensive, but they came agonizingly close to snatching a victory in the dying moments, with Sam Lammers and Danilo both threatening the opposition's goal. The absence of Borna Barisic due to injury forced Rangers to adopt an unfamiliar formation, employing Ben Davies as part of a three-man defense, supported by wing-backs James Tavernier and Abdallah Sima.

Right from the start, the home side launched a relentless attack, dominating the first half. However, Rangers' goalkeeper, Jack Butland, showcased his prowess with a series of impressive saves, ensuring the scoreline remained level. As the first 45 minutes drew to a close, Rangers found themselves hanging on desperately as Prague bombarded their box with shots and crosses. In a crucial moment, John Lundstram made a last-ditch challenge to prevent what seemed like an inevitable goal, prompting a brief consultation with the VAR team, but the referee waved play on.

Despite struggling to create opportunities, Rangers managed to carve out their first chance from a corner, but Lundstram's effort sailed well over the crossbar. The Scottish team breathed a sigh of relief as the first half ended, having failed to register a single shot on target and spending most of their time defending resolutely.

The second half began in a similar fashion, with Prague dictating play. However, signs of Rangers' resurgence started to emerge as they pushed further up the field, causing problems for the Prague defense. Just before the hour-mark, Prague came close to breaking the deadlock through a brilliant display of link-up play, but Kutcha's shot narrowly missed Butland's post.

Finally, Rangers mustered their first shot on target, falling once again to Lundstram, but his attempt lacked power and was easily saved by Vindahl-Jensen. As the game progressed and the clock ticked away, it became increasingly apparent that Clement's side had a strong chance of leaving with a positive result. With 15 minutes remaining, they had their best opportunity yet, as Sam Lammers unleashed a curling shot towards goal, only for Vindahl-Jensen to palm it away for a corner.

As the final moments approached, Rangers grew in confidence and launched their most promising spell of the game, desperately seeking a late winner. Danilo came agonizingly close to securing the victory, but the keeper managed to tip his shot onto the crossbar. Tavernier and Raskin also made late attempts, capitalizing on the home team's fatigue. Overall, the traveling support will be delighted with the hard-fought draw, knowing that their team displayed resilience and determination against a formidable opponent.