Rangers Urged to “Play with Joy” Ahead of Crucial Champions League Clash
Rangers are gearing up for a huge night at Ibrox as they take on Club Brugge in the first leg of their Champions League play-off, and head coach Russell Martin has a simple but powerful message for his players: play with joy. The Scottish side knows that a win here would put them on the brink of Europe’s elite club competition, and Martin is determined that his squad approaches the game with energy and confidence.
It has been a challenging start to the season for Rangers under Martin, especially in domestic competitions, but the European campaign has offered some respite. Wins against Panathinaikos and Viktoria Plzen have already propelled the team to this playoff stage, and the manager is keen to build on that momentum. Martin has been emphasizing to his players that football at Ibrox can be something truly special. He wants them to enjoy the game, to let their energy shine, and to give the fans a spectacle that they can feed off. “Our job is to give them enough clarity and consistency so that they can actually enjoy playing for this football club,” Martin has explained. “It should be one of the best opportunities and times of your career.”
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In terms of team news, there are a few concerns ahead of the game. Striker Cyriel Dessers is a doubt after picking up a knee injury in the second leg against Plzen, though the prognosis is better than initially feared. Meanwhile, new signing Jayden Meghoma is expected to be registered in time to feature, adding fresh options to Martin’s lineup. On the rumor mill, Martin has dismissed claims that midfielder Nico Raskin has requested a transfer, insisting that the Belgian star has been focused and committed.
Club Brugge, managed by Nicky Hayen, arrive at Ibrox after a solid campaign in Europe, including a 4-2 aggregate win over Salzburg. They are known for their tactical flexibility and will likely test Rangers’ defensive organization. Last season, they managed a 1-1 draw away at Celtic, showing they can be dangerous on the road. Rangers, on the other hand, have been solid at home, keeping clean sheets against both Panathinaikos and Plzen, though their style of controlling possession can sometimes leave them exposed.
Players to watch include Lyall Cameron, who has been impressive in Europe and looks confident in front of goal, as well as Djeidi Gassama, who has scored four goals in four Champions League appearances. Both teams have shown a tendency to find the net, with goals scored in five of Rangers’ last six matches across all competitions, setting the stage for an exciting encounter.
With the atmosphere at Ibrox expected to be electric and the stakes incredibly high, Rangers are being encouraged to embrace the occasion, play with freedom, and give themselves the best chance to advance to the group stages of the Champions League. A win here could set the tone for a memorable European campaign, and Martin is determined that his players experience both the pressure and the joy of competing at the highest level.
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