On 21 September, one of the matches of the Europa League in football took place. Rangers (Glasgow) and Betis (Sevilla) met.
Europa League
Rangers (Glasgow) - Betis (Sevilla) - 1:0 (0:0)
Goals: A. Sima (68)
Warnings: Bartra (54), Goldson (65), Bravo (69), Hermann Pezzella (81).
In a tense encounter at the Ibrox Stadium, Rangers defeated Real Betis 1-0 in the UEFA Europa League. Despite being goalless at half-time, both teams displayed their attacking prowess throughout the match, delighting fans and those watching from home alike. The first notable highlight of the match came in the 54th minute when Real Betis defender Marc Bartra received a yellow card. This early warning set the tone for a physical confrontation between the sides. Tensions were further heightened when Rangers made their first substitution in the 62nd minute, bringing on Takumi Lawrence in place of Sekou Lammers. As the match progressed, the referee again showed a yellow card, this time to Connor Goldson in the 65th minute. This signalled the growing rivalry and determination of both teams. Soon after, in the 68th minute, Rangers did take the lead with a goal from striker Adam Sima to make the decisive score 1-0. Left in the minority, Real Betis continued to fight back, but their efforts were negated by a disciplined Rangers defence. The Spanish team's frustration reached boiling point in the 69th minute when another player, Claudio Bravo, was sent off for a yellow card.
In an attempt to turn the tide of the match and find equal chances, Real Betis made a number of substitutions in the 72nd minute. Luis Enrique, Aitor Perez and Willian Jose were replaced by Tiberio Guarente, Borja Iglesias and Rodri respectively. However, despite their best efforts, Rangers managed to maintain their advantage. In the 80th minute, Rangers made another substitution as Juan Cifuentes replaced Ryan Jack, strengthening the midfield and adding freshness. In the 81st minute, Real Betis player Gabriel Pezzella received a yellow card, which once again confirmed the intensity and physicality of the match. As the final whistle approached, both teams were keen to secure a decisive result. In the 88th minute, Real Betis made one last substitution, replacing Assane Diao with Isco, while Rangers brought on Sheikh Diaby in place of Kemar Roofe. With just a minute left in the match, Rangers made one last substitution, replacing goalkeeper Adam Sima with Daniel Sterling to further strengthen the defence. Despite Real Betis' best efforts, Rangers stood firm and came away with a hard-fought victory. The match showed the competitive spirit and determination of both teams, emphasising the excitement and unpredictability of European football. Rangers' only goal and a great defensive performance gave the team a memorable victory at Ibrox Stadium in front of a passionate home crowd.
In the next round the following matches await the rivals: Aris vs Rangers, Betis vs Sparta.
| Rangers | Betis | |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | Kicks to the goal | 4 |
| 18 | Kicks | 10 |
| 9 | Blocked shots | 0 |
| 11 | Penalty kicks | 6 |
| 7 | Kicks from outside the penalty box | 4 |
| 12 | Offences | 8 |
| 9 | Corner | 6 |
| 0 | Offsides | 2 |
| 48% | Ball possession | 52% |
| 1 | Yellow cards | 3 |
| 0 | Red cards | 0 |
| 4 | Keeper saves | 4 |
| 374 | Total assists | 420 |
| 291 | Accurate assists | 336 |
| 78% | Accuracy of passes | 80% |