Rangers Ready For Underdog Challenge Against Benfica In Europa League

Philippe Clement, the manager of Rangers, has recently labeled his team as underdogs in their upcoming Europa League clash against Benfica. This marks a significant moment as it's the first time Clement has positioned Rangers in this light since his tenure began. The cinch Premiership leaders are gearing up for a challenging encounter, with the first leg set to take place in Portugal on March 7, followed by a decisive return match at Ibrox a week later.

Benfica, currently sharing the top spot of the Portuguese Primeira Liga with Sporting Lisbon, presents a formidable challenge. Despite having played an additional game, their performance remains strong, setting the stage for an intense battle in the last 16 of the Europa League. The draw has sparked considerable interest, highlighting the tough road ahead for Rangers.

Clement's leadership has seen Rangers overcome a seven-point deficit to Celtic, propelling them two points clear at the top of the Premiership. With a crucial game against third-placed Hearts on the horizon, Clement's focus remains sharp on both domestic and European fronts. The Belgian manager acknowledges the difficulty of the tie against Benfica but remains optimistic about Rangers' chances.

The absence of midfielder Todd Cantwell due to a hamstring injury is a blow to the team, sidelining him for three to four weeks. However, the return of striker Kemar Roofe after a lengthy injury layoff boosts the squad's morale and attacking options. Clement's belief in his team's quality and mentality underscores his confidence that Rangers can triumph against any opponent, provided they perform at their peak and fortune favors them in crucial moments.

Clement candidly assesses the disparity between Rangers and Benfica in terms of budget and squad value but sees this as an opportunity to write a "special story" with his team. He draws inspiration from last season's encounter between Benfica and his former team Club Brugge, where Benfica showcased their prowess with a 7-1 aggregate victory. Despite acknowledging Benfica's superiority on paper, Clement emphasizes the hunger, motivation, and desire within his squad as key factors that could lead to success in this European campaign.

The upcoming matches against Benfica not only represent a significant challenge for Rangers but also an opportunity to demonstrate their progress under Clement's guidance. As Rangers prepare for these crucial encounters, the blend of tactical acumen, team spirit, and individual talent will be pivotal in their quest to defy expectations and advance further in the Europa League.