Rangers face PSV Eindhoven at Ibrox on Tuesday evening with the obvious need to secure a result to take to the Netherlands for the second leg, next week.
Nothing can be guaranteed in terms of what would ‘be enough’ from the first leg, but most reasonable expectations would state that at least a draw will be required, with both teams likely to fancy their chances of scoring. Gio van Bronckhorst has talked up the goals in his team, speaking of a lethal intention with the players that he now has at his disposal.
In starting out the tie at home, some thoughts will drift back to Red Star last season when a very healthy three goal lead was secured for the assignment in the Serbian capital for the return game – a similar situation on Tuesday would be dreamland! This upcoming clash with PSV will be up there in terms of Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig in its difficulty but that also means that it’s an obstacle that can be navigated.
If it is to happen, the Rangers team will need to be on top of their game and sharp in putting the ball in the net. GvB stated on the goal threat from his men:
“We have players who can score goals now from all areas. Antonio (Colak) is a striker, Malik (Tillman) is scoring from midfield, Tom Lawrence is scoring goals and there is the contribution of Scott Arfield and Rabbi Matondo.”
“The intention we have up front and all over is to create chances and be lethal.”
Battles
That ruthless edge will also be required in defence with the midfield encounter also having a huge bearing on the outcome.
As recent results for both teams will show, goals aren’t in short supply but neither defence is watertight. Far from it, just now. Individual battles all over the pitch will matter but this tie will be decided on quality and who shows the most at both ends.
Hopefully the 2022 version is more like 1999 and not 2011 in terms of the most recent meetings with PSV.