Rangers delivered their best performance so far under Russell Martin with a dominant 3-0 victory over Viktoria Plzen at Ibrox, taking a significant step towards the UEFA Champions League playoff round.
Bold Selections, Clear Message
Martin made headlines before kick-off by dropping captain James Tavernier and Player of the Year Nico Raskin.
In came Lyall Cameron for a first European start and new signing Oliver Antman on the right wing, with the manager sending a strong message: follow the plan or you don’t play.
Fast Start, Full Control
From the outset, Rangers looked balanced and sharp.
The use of natural-sided full-backs allowed the team to stretch the pitch effectively. Cameron and Antman impressed early, linking well with the standout performer on the night, Djeidi Gassama.
The breakthrough came in the 15th minute when Gassama played a slick one-two with Cyriel Dessers inside the box before calmly finishing into the bottom corner.
Dessers’ striker play, dropping deep and linking up, was central to Rangers' fluid attack.
Conviction and Composure
Rangers were in full control and nearly added a second when Antman had a low strike cleared off the line.
Plzen had a few half-chances, but Djiga was a colossus at the back, cutting out danger with calm authority.
On 42 minutes, Gassama released Antman, who was brought down in the box after a determined drive.
Dessers stepped up and, after a lengthy delay, confidently converted from the spot to double Rangers’ lead before half-time.
Clinical in the Second Half
The second half brought more of the same. In the 50th minute, Aarons slipped a pass down the line for Antman, who delivered a pinpoint cross for Gassama to head home his second of the night.
It was a goal that encapsulated the attacking principles Martin has been trying to implement.
Rangers continued to threaten, with Diomande hitting the bar and Antman nearly setting up a fourth late on.
Substitutes Danilo and Barron came on to see out the match, though the latter looked nervy in his cameo.
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Standouts and Statement
Gassama was named Man of the Match for his electric performance on the left, while debutant Antman was a constant menace on the right.
Cameron showed maturity beyond his years in midfield, offering energy and intelligence on and off the ball.
Conclusion
This was a full-blooded 90-minute performance, brave, controlled, and cohesive.
Martin’s selection gambles paid off, and his tactical vision was finally realised in style. With one foot in the next round, Rangers now travel to the Czech Republic needing to be professional, but they will carry both belief and momentum.
Plzen have history of comebacks as seen in their previous round comeback win over Servette, but if Rangers play like this again, they should comfortably finish the job.