Rangers’ European journey came to a bitter end last night in Bilbao, as Barry Fergusons side bowed out of the Europa League following a controversial 2-0 defeat to Athletic Club. It was a match defined not just by fine margins but by staggering officiating decisions that left fans fuming and players in disbelief.
Let’s be clear: this Rangers team had already defied the odds in Europe this season. With arguably the toughest group stage draw of any side, they faced more top-eight opponents than anyone else—and still made it through automatically. That in itself was an achievement. But in a tie where they needed luck and fairness to even the playing field against a technically superior opponent, both deserted them.
The Dessers Decision That Defied Belief
The first major flashpoint came when Cyriel Dessers burst through into the box chasing a deflected ball. With a clear run on goal, the Athletic defender grabbed his shirt with such force it ripped wide open—Dessers literally had to change shirts. Penalty and red card, right? Not according to the officials. Neither the referee nor VAR thought it was worth a second look. After the game, Tavernier said the referee claimed there “wasn’t enough in it.” The shredded jersey suggested otherwise.
A Cruel Blow Before Half-Time
Just before the break, another gut punch. John Souttar went to make an interception just inside the area but was caught out by a smart piece of play from the Athletic attacker, who nipped in and drew the contact. Penalty given—and this one, to be fair, was probably correct. But the timing was brutal. With Balogun in position to cover, Souttar might’ve held off, but it’s hard to blame him in real time.
Tactical Gamble Backfires After Injury Blow
Injuries added to Rangers’ woes. Ridvan Yilmaz, already strapped up, limped off early holding the back of his leg. It looked like Clinton Nsiala was about to come on, but Ferguson opted instead for a tactical reshuffle—bringing on Connor Barron and pushing Diomande wide. The result? Rangers lost control of the midfield, and the game began to swing further toward the home side.
Then early in the second half came another setback: Balogun and Souttar clashed heads and the Nigerian was forced off. Clearly frustrated, but there was no option—it was the right call for player safety.
Another VAR Head-Scratcher
Rangers were still in it, just a goal down and defending doggedly. Then came another baffling moment. A shot from Dessers ricocheted in the box and brushed the outstretched hand of a defender. Soft? Maybe. But Sterling had a similar call given against him in the first leg. What fans want is consistency, and once again, that was nowhere to be seen.
Seconds later, Raskin cracked the loose ball off the post. Another “what if” moment in a night full of them.
Nico Williams Ends the Dream
As time ticked away, the tie was put beyond reach by the excellent Nico Williams. A pinpoint cross found James Tavernier ball-watching at the back post, and the Spanish star headed home to make it 2-0. Game over.
Time to Play for Their Futures
This loss effectively ends Rangers’ season with five league matches to go and the title is heading to Celtic Park. But with new owners, a Sporting Director incoming, and likely a new manager, these remaining matches are no dead rubbers. They’re auditions.
Bright Spot: Nsiala Steps Up
One bright note came in the form of Clinton Nsiala. Thrown into a tough European fixture, the young defender looked composed, solid in the tackle, and used the ball well. After some tough outings earlier this season, he showed he’s still got real potential. We need to see more of him.
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