Rangers Triumph Over Panathinaikos: Eyes Now on Viktoria Plzeň
Rangers fans are riding high after a memorable European night at Ibrox, with the team seeing off Panathinaikos to secure their place in the next round of Champions League qualifiers. The atmosphere was electric, the football intense, and the result—a well-deserved win over the two legs —sets the stage for another crucial tie as Rangers look to book their place in the group stages.
Beating Panathinaikos: A Statement Win
The Greeks arrived in Glasgow with plenty of confidence, but Rangers showed grit, determination, and flashes of real quality. Goals from key players and a rock-solid defensive display ensured that Panathinaikos never truly settled into the tie. The fans played their part too, turning Ibrox into a cauldron of noise and passion that clearly rattled the visitors.
This win is more than just progress in the competition—it’s a statement of intent. Rangers are hungry, and with each round, belief is growing that this squad can do something special in Europe this season.
Findlay Curtis on the Win
Speaking after the match, Findlay Curtis summed up the team’s mood:
“We knew it was going to be tough, but the boys stuck together and the fans gave us that extra push. Nights like this are what we play for. Now it’s all about recovery and getting ready for the next challenge.”
Next Up: FC Viktoria Plzeň
With Panathinaikos in the rearview mirror, all eyes now turn to the next challenge: Czech champions FC Viktoria Plzeň. For many Rangers fans, Plzeň might not be a household name, but underestimate them at your peril.
A Brief History of FC Viktoria Plzeň
Founded in 1911, FC Viktoria Plzeň have become a force in Czech football over the last two decades. While they spent much of their early history outside the limelight, their fortunes changed dramatically in the 2010s. Plzeň won their first Czech First League title in 2011 and have added several more since, establishing themselves as regulars in European competitions.
They’re no strangers to the Champions League, having reached the group stages multiple times, and their European pedigree includes famous wins over the likes of CSKA Moscow, Dinamo Zagreb, and even taking points off Real Madrid in recent years.
Recent Form
Plzeň come into this tie on the back of a solid run of form. Last season, they finished as runners-up in the Czech league, just behind Slavia Prague, and have started their new domestic campaign strongly. In Europe, they’ve shown resilience and tactical discipline, knocking out tough opponents in previous rounds and proving they can handle the pressure of knockout football.
Their squad blends experienced campaigners with exciting young talent, and their style is typically Czech—disciplined, technically sound, and always dangerous on the counter-attack.
What’s Next for Rangers?
The tie against Viktoria Plzeň is set to be a real test. The Czechs will be organised and tough to break down, especially away from home. But Rangers have momentum, belief, and the backing of a passionate support. If they can bring the same intensity and quality that saw off Panathinaikos, there’s every chance of progressing to the next stage.
As the countdown to the first leg begins, anticipation is building. European nights at Ibrox are always special, and with a place in the Champions League group stages on the line, Rangers will be ready to rise to the occasion once again.