Manuel Pellegrini insists his Real Betis defence must be alert to stop a ‘dangerous’ Rangers attack during Thursday’s Europa League decider in Spain.
For all the quality both teams possess in the centre of the park – from Isco to John Lundstram, William Carvalho to Todd Cantwell – September’s group-stage clash at Ibrox was a game decided within the width of the penalty area.
At one end, Jack Butland was in inspired form between the sticks. And, at the other, Rangers did what Betis could not and took their chance, Abdallah Sima bundling in from a set-piece.
Pellegrini accepts that Los Verdiblancos cannot afford a repeat if they are to stop the Glasgow giants doing double over one of the pre-tournament favourites, with Betis, Rangers and Sparta Prague all separated by two points heading into matchday six.
Rangers face Real Betis in do or die clash
“We expect a Rangers who, as it is a big game, will go out knowing that a draw is of no use to them because they could be knocked out,” the former Manchester City, Real Madrid and West Ham United boss tells Marca.
“They are a dangerous team in attack, with a lot of power up front. We have to be very focused on the defensive aspect but while also being the same Betis as always, and going out to win the game.”
Sima’s goal in the reverse fixture was one of 13 the Brighton loanee has scored since moving to Ibrox. And while Rangers will be without Danilo due to a serious knee injury, Pellegrini’s opposite number Philippe Clement can still call upon Kemar Roofe, Ross McCausland, a returning Rabbi Matondo and the steadily-improving Cyriel Dessers.
Pellegrini takes on Clement in Spain
“I think we played the game in Glasgow very well,” Pellegrini adds, gearing up for a battle against Clement after losing to Mick Beale three months ago.
“We were dominant, especially in the first-half with two very clear chances. They scored the only goal from a corner, which made them keep the three points.
“It is a different Rangers (now). The same players, but the coach has changed, and they don’t play the same way. Although regardless of whether we had won there or not, we know that we are facing a team that is used to European competitions and that we have to play a very good game.”
