12.08.2025 6 p.m.
Europe 🇪🇺 Champions League 🇪🇺
Venue:Doosan Arena
Plzen 🇨🇿 vs 🏴 Rangers
Rangers should largely control the game, but Plzeň will push aggressively. I’d back Rangers to avoid defeat (Double Chance), with a high likelihood of over 2.5 goals and both teams scoring due to the open nature of the contest.
Rangers might be a hit-and-miss side under Russell Martin, but they are still unbeaten this season and tend to produce their best stuff in Europe.
Meanwhile, Plzen have lacked rhythm so far and will surely be deflated by events in Scotland.
■■■Plzeň’s Game Plan■■■
•Objective: Score early to make a comeback at least mathematically possible.
•Shape: Likely 4-2-3-1 but with both full-backs pushing up aggressively.
•Pressing: Expect a high press from the first whistle, forcing Rangers’ back line into quick decisions.
•Risk: That pressing will leave gaps behind the full-backs, perfect for Rangers’ counters.
•Key man: Adrian Zeljković’s return will be vital in breaking Rangers’ first line of press and feeding the wingers quickly.
■■■Rangers’ Game Plan■■■
•Objective: Manage tempo, frustrate Plzeň, and exploit space on the break.
•Shape: 4-3-3, but in possession it will shift to a 4-1-4-1 with the defensive midfielder screening counter-attacks.
•Approach: They won’t need to dominate possession — 45–50% is enough if they make it count in transitions.
•Counter threat: With Oliver Antman potentially starting or coming on, Rangers have raw pace to punish the high line Plzeň must play.
•Set pieces: Rangers will look to slow the game down with throw-ins and corners, while also being dangerous on free kicks from the flanks.
■■■Tactical verdict:■■■
•The match will likely be open and entertaining because Plzeň must take risks.
•This suits Rangers perfectly — they thrive when there’s space to run into.
•Expect Plzeň to get on the scoresheet, but Rangers’ counters should seal the night.
OUR VERDICT:Both Teams To Score-Yes
ODDS #1.70# In Ladbrokes
