Rangers’ European Campaign Ends in Defeat as Focus Shifts to Domestic Success

Rangers’ 3-1 defeat to Porto encapsulated the challenges they have faced in their European endeavors this season.

The campaign began with promise, highlighted by victories over Panathinaikos and Viktoria Plzen. However, a swift downturn followed, exemplified by a staggering 6-0 defeat to Club Brugge in the second leg of their Champions League play-off.

The disappointing trend continued into the Europa League, where the team managed only one win in the league phase, achieved last week against Ludogorets, but by then, their chances were largely extinguished.

Attention now turns to domestic competitions, as Danny Rohl’s Rangers strive to salvage a season that commenced under tumultuous circumstances. The next two-and-a-half weeks are pivotal for the team’s aspirations.

“I’m now fully focused on the league,” Rohl stated to the media shortly after the final whistle in Portugal. “We have a mission, and we’re channeling all our energy toward it.”

This renewed focus could prove beneficial for Rohl, who has led the team to an impressive seven consecutive victories in domestic play. The absence of European distractions may allow the players to concentrate fully on upcoming challenges.

The next four matches will significantly test their mettle, beginning with Hibs at Easter Road on Sunday afternoon (14:00 GMT). Following that, they will face Kilmarnock and Queen’s Park in the Scottish Cup before hosting Motherwell at Fir Park on February 11 (20:00).

Just four days later, they welcome Hearts to Ibrox, a team that has already defeated them twice this season. The upcoming fixtures against three of the top five teams, including two away games, pose a considerable challenge.

“We are now fully focused on the next 15 match days in the league, and having two normal weeks helps us prepare,” Rohl added. “It’s the first time we can truly focus on training and ensure everyone is fresh.”

With key players returning from injury and ongoing training, Rohl has emphasized the importance of squad depth as they navigate this crucial period.

The January transfer window has been relatively successful for Rangers, seeing the arrival of Tochi Chukwuani, who has solidified the midfield, and Andreas Skov Olsen, a notable addition due to his background. Although Tuur Rommens, the new left-back, has yet to debut, his acquisition enhances the team’s options.

Rohl hinted at further additions, specifically an attacking player, as the team seeks to bolster its firepower. Former Rangers striker Billy Dodds suggested, “Rangers could benefit from a striker, even with [Youssef] Chermiti on board.”

Despite Bojan Miovski’s tally of eight goals this season, including three against Annan Athletic, Chermiti’s four goals have raised concerns about the team’s scoring capability. Speculation regarding potential departures, including Chermiti, Djeidi Gassama, and Danilo, has also emerged.

In light of this, Rohl stated before the match, “I expect the next three or four days to be a bit chaotic,” acknowledging the need for an attacking player. Fans are likely to stay engaged with transfer updates as the head coach aims to strengthen the squad for a push towards the title.