Verdict: Draw
Best odds: 12/5
Bookmaker: ZetBet
The clash between Rangers and PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League playoff round is sure to bring back memories of their encounter from last year. This stage of the competition holds significant importance, as the winner will secure a place in the group stage, a desired destination for any club on the continent.
Rangers
Rangers will be looking to replicate their success from last year when they eliminated PSV at this stage. The memories of their victory over the Dutch side will undoubtedly provide motivation for the Scottish club to aim for a repeat performance and secure their place in the group stage once again.
However, the road to this point hasn’t been without challenges for Rangers, as they had to navigate through the previous rounds with some mixed performances. Despite facing adversity and needing to come from behind, the team managed to demonstrate resilience and determination to progress.
In the previous round, Michael Beale’s men faced Swiss side Servette and progressed due to a 2-1 triumph in the first leg at home, after which they earned a satisfying 1-1 draw away. James Tavernier proved a hero for his team early in the second half, cancelling out Dereck Kutesa’s first-half opener.
Team News
Ben Davies’ absence due to illness might lead to adjustments in the defensive lineup, while the continued absence of Ridvan Yilmaz could affect their options in the attacking or midfield areas.
Additionally, the long-term absence of Steve Davis due to a cruciate ligament injury is a significant setback for Rangers.
PSV Eindhoven
PSV Eindhoven’s strong performance and comprehensive victory over Sturm Graz in the previous round underline their attacking prowess and ability to capitalize on their lead. Despite having a comfortable 4-1 advantage from the first leg, they didn’t take the second leg lightly and managed to secure another convincing win.
The team’s mentality and determination to continue scoring goals, even when the aggregate lead was already substantial, speaks to their competitive spirit and their desire to maintain their momentum. The fact that they were able to overcome a deficit in the second leg and add to their tally demonstrates their offensive capabilities and their ability to respond to challenges.
This mentality will likely carry over into their match against Rangers, where they will aim to continue their impressive form and secure a place in the Champions League group stage. Their strong attacking options, as well as their ability to perform under pressure, could make them a formidable opponent for Rangers in this playoff round encounter.
Team News
The likely absence of left-back Mauro Junior due to a knee problem, along with the uncertainty surrounding Patrick van Aanholt’s fitness, presents a challenging situation for PSV coach Peter Bosz. The need to shuffle players in the defense, such as using right-back Shurandy Sambo as a makeshift left-back, could disrupt the team’s usual defensive setup.
Additionally, the absence of defenders Armando Obispo and Fredrik Oppegard, along with the fitness concern over Noa Lang, could further impact PSV’s defensive and attacking options.
Conclusion
At the moment, PSV might have the greater quality between these two sides and will fancy their chances of reaching the group stage of the Champions League. However, in the first leg in Scotland, with all the injury problems plaguing their ranks, they’ll likely be happy not to lose the game.
Verdict: Draw
Best odds: 12/5
Bookmaker: ZetBet
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