UEFA Champions League: PSV vs. Glasgow Rangers Preview, Odds, Predictions, Picks

Following an intense first leg in Glasgow, both PSV and Rangers find themselves with a nice opportunity to secure a spot in the UEFA Champions League group stage. Everything is still open after 2-2 in Scotland, and both units believe in their victory. The fans remember last year’s playoffs, when we had pretty much a similar situation and the Gers’ eventual triumph.

Preview

PSV (-200) displayed its strength at Ibrox but fell short of beating the Rangers. Despite falling behind twice, they showcased immense resilience and fought back, yet they didn’t have the juice left to completely flip the result. 

We need to say that the former European champs played better, having more chances, better flow of the game, and, in general, outsmarting the rivals when it came to tactics. But the luck wasn’t on their side, and on a couple of occasions, PSV’s focus dropped, which eventually cost this team a win. 

Prior to their clash in Scotland, PSV recorded five consecutive victories, in four of them netting multiple times. Their attacking prowess is undeniable, putting their opponents under heavy pressure. The defense is a bit shaky, without consistency, frequently allowing goals and being an issue that needs to be solved. 

Rangers (+500) had tumultuous performances in the preseason and initial events of their domestic competitions. They suffered a defeat against Kilmarnock and faced difficulties against Morton, leaving a pale impression. Though in Europe, this team looked way better, reaching the final phase of the playoffs and securing at least the Europa League. 

The team from Glasgow demonstrated its superiority over the Swiss representative, Servette, in the previous round. They emerged victorious with a 2-1 triumph at Ibox and managed to secure a 1-1 draw on the away leg, thereby securing their spot to compete against PSV.

It is worth stating that Rangers’ matches are known for their high level of excitement. Over 2.5 goals are common when Scottish powerhouse appears on the field, usually with goals on both ends. Unlike the attack, their defense has been relatively weak. The backline has crumbles under pressure, which can be identified as their main weakness.

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Ramalho is out, the sme as Boscagli. However, the biggest problem for the hosts is Noa Lang’s injury, with the pacey winger being out for at least a couple of weeks. 

Steven Davis and Ridvan Yilmaz are injured in the visiting unit.

Head to Head Games

Last week’s match ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. Both teams showcased their attacking prowess, with Sima and Matondo finding the back of the net for the home side, and Sangare and de Jong displayed their goal-scoring abilities for the visiting team.

Taking a trip down memory lane, we can’t help but recall the same result from last year’s encounter at Ibrox. However, it was the Gers who won the first leg, held in Eindhoven, with a narrow 1-0 victory. This impressive performance propelled them to the coveted UEFA Champions League.

Predictions 

PSV’s ruthless attack will undoubtedly exploit the Gers’ shady backline. Rangers’ struggle at the beginning of this season cannot be disregarded, and two good games against Servette won’t hide that. It’s time for the PSV to avenge last year’s defeat at this stage. 

Pick: PSV wins -200

Here are more previews for UCL playoffs:

• Panathinaikos vs. Braga
• Galatasaray vs. Molde
• AEK vs. Antwerp