In a night that will live long in Rangers' infamy, the Ibrox side plummeted to what manager Danny Rohl described as their "absolute lowest point" following a devastating 3-0 defeat to Norwegian outfit Brann.
A Wake-Up Call at Brann Stadion
The Europa League clash in Bergen turned into a nightmare for the travelling Scottish supporters as Rangers delivered what many are calling their worst European performance in recent memory. The comprehensive defeat leaves Rohl's men rock bottom of their group and facing an uphill battle to salvage their European campaign.
"I don't think the manager realised how bad things had become," admitted a shell-shocked Rohl in the post-match press conference. "But he certainly knows now."
Systematic Breakdown
From the opening whistle, Rangers looked vulnerable. The defensive frailties that have plagued them domestically were ruthlessly exposed by a Brann side that played with confidence and precision. The Norwegian team's attacking trio cut through Rangers' backline with alarming ease, leaving goalkeeper Jack Butland exposed on multiple occasions.
The midfield battle was equally concerning, with Rangers consistently second-best in challenges and failing to establish any meaningful control of the game. The lack of creativity and penetration going forward only compounded the defensive disasters unfolding at the other end.
Reaction and Repercussions
The result sends shockwaves through the Rangers fanbase, with many questioning whether this represents the club's lowest ebb in European competition. Social media erupted with criticism, while pundits dissected what appears to be a systemic failure within the squad.
Rohl now faces the biggest challenge of his managerial tenure at Ibrox. The German coach must somehow lift his demoralised squad for crucial domestic fixtures while finding solutions to problems that appear to run deeper than many initially feared.
This humbling defeat in Norway serves as a stark reminder that reputations count for nothing in European football. Unless significant improvements are made quickly, Rangers risk their season unravelling before it's truly begun.
