Cerny’s Brace Propels Rangers to Memorable Triumph Against Fenerbahce

Fenerbahçe faced their first-ever defeat against a Scottish team as Rangers showcased an impressive performance, securing a 3-1 victory at Sukru Saracoglu Stadium. This result places Rangers in a strong position as they head into the UEFA Europa League (UEL) Round of 16.

Given the differing domestic forms of both teams, Rangers aimed to start strong and unsettle their high-flying opponents. Interim manager Barry Ferguson’s decision to adopt a three-at-the-back formation seemed to pay off effectively.

Just six minutes into the match, Cyriel Dessers took full advantage of some lacklustre defending. He manoeuvred the ball around goalkeeper Irfan Can Egribayat, with his shot barely crossing the goal line before Caglar Soyuncu was able to clear it, giving the visitors an unexpected early lead.

The hosts responded to this setback with efforts from Youssef En-Nesyri and Edin Džeko, both of whom came close to equalising; however, it was substitute Alexander Djiku who showcased the instincts of a forward. He flicked a corner kick towards goal, successfully redirecting it past Jack Butland.

Despite a challenging phase for Rangers, they managed to regain their lead just before half-time with three minutes remaining.

After winning back possession in midfield, Rangers launched an attack, with Vaclav Cerny setting up Dessers inside the box. The Belgian then laid the ball back across the area to his Czech teammate, who calmly slotted it past Eğribayat, leaving the home supporters stunned once more.

Although Rangers anticipated a fierce second-half reaction from Sari Kanaryalar, they could have established a more commanding lead were it not for some misfortune for Dessers.

The Belgian thought he had notched up a second goal just six minutes into the second half, following up a saved effort from Nicolas Raskin, only for VAR to rule it offside.

Another close call occurred shortly after, as he skillfully beat Egribayat with a shot at the near post, only for the VAR to deny him again due to an offside call.

As both teams began to tire, the match evolved into an exciting series of counter-attacks. With the home side missing several chances to level the score, Rangers struck again with just ten minutes remaining. Cerny surged downfield and coolly slotted the ball past Eğribayat, solidifying a memorable away win.

Rangers have now lost just one of their last eight UEL away matches and will enter the second leg at Ibrox as firm favourites to progress to the quarter-finals.

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