Rangers have been eliminated from the Europa League following a 3-1 comeback defeat by Porto at the Estadio do Dragao, concluding a dismal European campaign for Danny Rohl's team.
Early Promise Fades as Rangers Collapse
Gers attacker Djeidi Gassama headed the visitors into a surprise lead after just six minutes, capitalising on a cross from Findlay Curtis to beat Portugal international keeper Diogo Costa. However, this early advantage quickly unravelled as Rangers' defence faltered dramatically.
Porto Seize Control with First-Half Blitz
Porto soon took control of the match, equalising in the 27th minute when 18-year-old Rodrigo Mora capitalised on a defensive error by Jayden Meghoma to fire in from close range. The Portuguese side then added two more goals before half-time, with Francisco Moura scoring in the 36th minute after a mix-up between James Tavernier and Jack Butland, followed by an Emmanuel Fernandez own goal from a corner in the 41st minute.
Improved Second Half Fails to Alter Outcome
Rangers showed more resilience after the break, with Rohl making all five substitutions in an attempt to salvage pride. Nico Raskin forced a save from Costa in the 63rd minute, but Porto comfortably fended off the improved Govan side to secure the victory.
Context of Rangers' European Campaign
This defeat marks Rangers' first loss in nine games across all competitions, though they were already out of the Europa League before kick-off, having accumulated only four points from eight league phase fixtures. The Light Blues now turn their attention to domestic matters, facing Hibernian at Easter Road on Sunday in the William Hill Premiership, where they aim to close the gap on leaders Hearts.
Rohl had to manage his squad with an eye on the upcoming fixture, as three January signings - Andreas Skov Olsen, Tochi Chukwuani, and Tuur Rommens - were ineligible, along with Nedim Bajrami. The Gers boss made five changes for the Porto match, bringing in Max Aarons, Mohamed Diomande, Findlay Curtis, Gassama, and Youssef Chermiti.
Porto, who had lost just one of their previous seven European fixtures, were seeking automatic qualification and ultimately moved on in the competition, leaving Rangers to reflect on a challenging European season.
