Rangers’ Stunning Record in the Europa League Since 2017 as Malmo Opener Nears
Rangers FC have carved out an impressive reputation in the UEFA Europa League since their return to the competition in 2017. Under the stewardship of both Steven Gerrard and, more recently, Michael Beale, the Glasgow giants have consistently punched above their weight on the European stage, defying expectations and re-establishing themselves as a force in continental football. As the club prepares to face Swedish side Malmö in their upcoming Europa League opener, the spotlight is once again on Rangers’ remarkable record in the tournament.
Rangers’ journey back into the upper echelons of European football began following their resurgence from financial difficulties and lower-league football. Returning to the Scottish Premiership in 2016, the club’s re-entry into European competitions in 2017 was symbolic of their broader ambitions to compete at the highest level once more.
Since then, Rangers have proven themselves to be more than just domestic competitors. Their record in the Europa League has been nothing short of remarkable, consistently defying the odds to make deep runs in the competition and producing some memorable nights for their fans at Ibrox and across Europe.
Since their return to the Europa League in the 2017-18 season, Rangers have reached the knockout stages multiple times, including an unforgettable run to the final in 2022. Here’s a closer look at their accomplishments since 2017:
2018-19:** After a six-year absence from group-stage football, Rangers returned with a solid campaign. They reached the group stage but narrowly missed out on progressing, demonstrating their potential on the European stage.
2019-20:** Rangers enjoyed a breakthrough season in Europe under Steven Gerrard, advancing to the Round of 16, where they were knocked out by Bayer Leverkusen. The run saw them claim notable victories over Porto and Feyenoord in the group stages, marking their return as serious competitors.
2020-21:** Once again, Rangers reached the Round of 16, knocking out Belgian side Royal Antwerp in a high-scoring tie. Their eventual elimination by Slavia Prague came amid controversy, but their consistency in reaching the latter stages of the competition was now clear.
2021-22:** The pinnacle of Rangers’ Europa League success came in this campaign, as they made an astonishing run to the final. Along the way, they defeated European heavyweights such as Borussia Dortmund, Red Star Belgrade, and RB Leipzig. Although they were narrowly beaten by Eintracht Frankfurt on penalties in the final, their performances earned widespread praise and showcased their ability to compete with top-tier European clubs.
2022-23:** Rangers entered the Champions League group stages after a decade-long absence, following their successful qualification through the playoffs. Though the season proved challenging in the elite competition, their return to European football’s biggest stage underscored their steady progress.
Several factors have contributed to Rangers’ resurgence in Europe. The tactical discipline introduced under Gerrard, which has since been built upon by Beale, has been crucial. Defensively, Rangers have been resilient, with a well-organized backline and the leadership of players like Connor Goldson.
Offensively, the team has consistently demonstrated a capacity for counter-attacking football, with key players like Alfredo Morelos, Ryan Kent, and James Tavernier thriving in the competition. Tavernier, in particular, has made a name for himself as one of the Europa League’s standout performers, contributing both goals and assists from his full-back position.
Moreover, the passionate atmosphere at Ibrox has turned the iconic stadium into a fortress, with memorable victories against the likes of Porto, RB Leipzig, and Borussia Dortmund all testament to the intimidating environment Rangers’ home crowd can create.
As Rangers prepare to face Malmö in their opening match of the 2024-25 Europa League campaign, anticipation is building. Malmö, a familiar foe from previous European encounters, will not be an easy task. The Swedish side knocked Rangers out of the Champions League qualifiers in 2021, and the Scottish club will be keen to avenge that defeat.
Rangers’ strong European pedigree, however, puts them in a favorable position. The club’s Europa League experience and their ability to raise their game on the continental stage will be crucial as they look to start this year’s campaign on the front foot. Manager Michael Beale, in his first full season, will be keen to stamp his authority on the European stage, continuing the legacy set by Gerrard.
Rangers’ Europa League record since 2017 shows that they are more than capable of making another deep run in the competition. While domestic silverware remains a priority, Rangers’ ability to mix it with Europe’s best has given the club a sense of identity that stretches beyond Scotland’s borders.
With a team full of European experience, a manager hungry for success, and a fanbase ready to roar, Rangers will once again look to make their mark on the competition. The clash against Malmö is just the beginning, and if recent history is any indication, European nights at Ibrox will continue to be ones to remember.
As the 2024-25 Europa League kicks off, Rangers are primed to add another chapter to their remarkable European journey.
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