On April 10, 2025, Rangers will host Athletic Bilbao in the first leg of the Europa League quarter-finals, a match steeped in history and anticipation. The Scottish club, aiming for a second final in four years, faces a formidable opponent in the Basques, who are looking to capitalize on home advantage in their next match at San Mamés.
Rangers, having recently knocked out Fenerbahçe in a thrilling penalty shootout after a dramatic 3-3 aggregate score, are eager to prove their worth on the European stage. However, they come into this match with significant concerns. The team has lost five consecutive home matches, scoring just one goal during this troubling stretch. Key players Souttar and Diomande are suspended, and the absence of injured Casado further complicates matters for manager Barry Ferguson.
Despite these setbacks, Rangers have shown flashes of brilliance this season, including a remarkable comeback against Dundee where they overturned a 1-3 deficit in just 15 minutes to win 4-3. Yet, their recent 0-2 defeat to Hibernian has raised questions about their consistency and ability to perform under pressure.
In contrast, Athletic Bilbao arrives in Glasgow riding a wave of confidence. Under the guidance of coach Ernesto Valverde, they have not lost in their last five matches, showcasing a solid defensive record with only two goals conceded. Athletic’s recent performance includes a stunning comeback against Roma, where they overturned a 1-2 first-leg deficit with a 3-1 victory at home, securing their place in the quarter-finals.
Bookmakers have made Athletic the favorites for this encounter, with odds of 2.00 for a win, while a draw stands at 3.60, and Rangers are priced at 3.90. Bet analysts suggest that both teams will score, with odds for "both teams to score" set at 2.00, and a total under 2.5 goals at 1.82. The cautious approach from both sides is expected, given the stakes of this knockout match.
Historically, the two teams have met only once in European competition. Back in 1969, Rangers secured a convincing 4-1 victory at home but fell to a 0-2 defeat in Spain, advancing on aggregate with a 4-3 scoreline. This historical context adds an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming match.
Rangers' recent form at home is alarming, having suffered five straight losses at Ibrox. Their defensive frailties have been evident, with the team conceding in ten consecutive matches. Ferguson's squad will need to find a way to stabilize their defense and convert their chances into goals if they hope to progress in the tournament.
On the other hand, Athletic Bilbao's performance in La Liga has been commendable, currently sitting fourth in the standings, just ahead of Villarreal. Their consistent form, even with three draws in their last five league matches, speaks to their resilience. Valverde's side has demonstrated a strong capability to perform in high-pressure situations, making them a tough opponent for Rangers.
As both teams prepare for the clash, the absence of key players will be a crucial factor. For Rangers, the loss of Souttar and Diomande could significantly impact their defensive setup, while Athletic will miss the services of Berchiche and possibly Parades, pending medical clearance. These injuries could dictate the tactical approaches both managers take.
Expectations are high for this match, with fans eager to see how Rangers will respond to the pressure of playing at home. Will they break their losing streak and deliver a performance worthy of their storied history? Or will Athletic capitalize on their current form and secure a vital away win?
In the lead-up to the match, expert opinions lean towards Athletic as the favorites. Betting analyst Vitaly Mazurin stated, "I believe Athletic will win, even in an away game. They are currently the fourth-best team in Spain, and their recent performances have shown their capability to handle pressure effectively." He suggests a bet on Athletic's victory at odds of 2.22, reflecting the confidence in their squad depth and tactical acumen.
As the match approaches, anticipation builds among fans and analysts alike. With both teams having everything to play for, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter in Glasgow. Will it be a night for Rangers to reclaim their home advantage, or will Athletic Bilbao continue their pursuit of European glory?
