Rangers forward, Greg Stewart, feels that the Ibrox side let Braga off the hook in the first-leg at Ibrox after coming from two goals down to take a 3-2 lead to Portugal in an interview on the Rangers Official Podcast (reported on the BBC Sport website).
In an incredible game in which neither side seemed intent on defending, Rangers had several chances before the Portuguese side went 2-0 in front until bedlam ensued and fans of the Light Blues witnessed one of the most memorable European comebacks in the club’s history.
When reflecting on the comeback and the prospect of taking on Braga on their own doorstep, Stewart said:
“I felt like we could have pushed to get another one, I thought we had them on the ropes. It’s a catch 22. Do you go and get another and get caught on the counter attack? I think the game couldn’t have finished any better to give us a chance.”
“We have been to Portugal in the group stage and showed our capabilities [drawing against Porto]. I think away from home suits a bit better as well.”
“I feel like we will definitely score over there. It’s a game that could suit us. We have probably played our best games in Europe if I’m honest.”
“I think it suits us with the style we play. We’ve given ourselves a chance we may never have had. We look forward to it.”
Will Rangers progress past Braga in the Europa League?
Yes
No
Rangers fans will be gutted to be without one of the Europa League’s top performers in Alfredo Morelos in the second leg due to his suspension but will be keen to see Florian Kamberi start after impressing against St Johnstone at the weekend.
Steven Gerrard may not have any great concerns with his forward line, however, defensively, his normally dependable rearguard have looked a shadow of their former selves recently, losing points from leading positions on no fewer than three occasions since the winter break.
His side isn’t suited to sitting in and defending a lead – as they have shown since January – and the Estadio AXA could see yet another thrilling night of action, given the weekend’s disappointment, a positive result would do much to lift the spirits of Gers fans everywhere.