Rangers travel to Moscow on Thursday to take on Spartak Moscow in a huge match in the Europa League.
Whilst many Rangers fans may be pessimistic about their chances in Moscow, there might never be a better time to take maximum points in the Luzhniki.
Rangers shouldn’t hold back against Spartak. Russia’s most successful club have been toiling as of late and Rangers should take full advantage on Thursday. Even if we couldn’t at Ibrox.
Here’s three reasons why.
Disarray symbolised by Spartak losing four on the bounce at home
Spartak’s off-field problems have been well documented. Before the tie at Ibrox, they sacked manager Massimo Carrera. Caretaker Raul Riancho might’ve managed a draw in Govan, but he’s not had much luck since.
They’ve lost four home games on the bounce, the latest a 2-1 loss to FC Ural on Sunday with Riancho decrying evil “external evil forces” against the club after the game. He then went on to criticise the performance of his own fans. Rangers must smell blood here.
Rangers have already proven they can do it in Russia
Moscow isn’t quite as far East as Ufa, but if any game should stand as motivation for this team, it’s Rangers last trip to the Russia.
A 1-1 draw against Ufa came against all the odds. Ejaria gave us the lead, we had two men sent off, yet we still produced.
Make no mistake, Spartak Moscow are more esteemed competition. But with a win in a difficult environment on a European away day already behind us, this squad should be confident they can handle the Luzhniki.
Europe has been a catalyst for Rangers before
Europe carried a lot for Rangers in the early season. The performances in the Europa League have been massive so far and they’ve spurned us on at Ibrox.
The Rapid Vienna result gave us a huge boost for Hearts. Any result here will do the same for a big home match on Sunday.
After a win against St. Mirren stopped the rot, a result in Moscow can kickstart momentum going into Motherwell.
