The Europa League clash at Ibrox on Thursday night provided a whirlwind spectacle as Tottenham’s boss, Ange Postecoglou, found himself facing the pressure of a role reversal that he knows all too well from his time managing Celtic. Once a tormentor of Rangers, Postecoglou’s side struggled to impose themselves, with Dejan Kulusevski’s late equalizer saving face for the North Londoners against an energized Light Blues side.
Hamza Igamane’s thunderous strike put Rangers in the lead, while Spurs had Fraser Forster, the former Celtic goalkeeper, to thank for preventing the damage from escalating. As the match unfolded, the stakes grew ever higher for Postecoglou, with the winless streak now extending to five games for Tottenham.
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As Rangers gear up for their crucial Premier Sports Cup final against Celtic this Sunday, they delivered a performance that suggests they are hitting form at just the right time. The clash with Spurs not only captured headlines globally but also revealed differing attitudes towards the two teams in the media.
Bild (Germany):
“Rangers showcased an impressive display and must feel a tinge of disappointment for not securing all three points. On the opposite end, the Spurs again walked away dissatisfied, relying on Fraser Forster to salvage a point. Philippe Clement tactically outclassed his opponent, and with the crowd roaring, Rangers gave their all. However, despite taking the lead, they couldn’t extend it. Following a triple substitution from Postecoglou, Spurs finally found their rhythm, yet Rangers almost snatched victory late on.”
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Voetbol Zone (Belgium):
“Despite Tottenham dominating possession in the first half, it was Rangers who had the clearer chances. Cerny posed a constant threat, and it was only Forster’s heroics that kept the scores level at half-time. The breakthrough finally came early in the second half thanks to a brilliant cross from James Tavernier, which Igamane converted. Spurs applied pressure for an equalizer and, after William Saliba appeared to be fouled, Kulusevski pounced on a loose ball to level the scores. Both teams had opportunities to win it but had to settle for a draw.”
VI (Netherlands):
“Rangers executed a stranglehold on Spurs, with Igamane opening the scoring. Although Kulusevski equalized with fifteen minutes left, it was Dessers’ near miss that lifted the spirits of the Scottish fans whose joy was fleeting due to an offside call shortly thereafter.”
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The New York Times (United States):
“What transpired was chaotic yet entertaining—a thrilling encounter where neither side managed to secure the upper hand, making for a brilliant display of football. Rangers held their ground against a team laden with quality and international experience, deserving to snatch all three points. Tottenham owes their survival to Kulusevski and Forster, who kept their hopes alive.”
The Team (France):
“Tottenham’s inconsistency has been apparent throughout the season, mirrored in their Europa League campaign. They secured a draw at Ibrox after falling behind to a fine strike from Igamane. Kulusevski’s equalizer kept the tie alive, but the result only further complicates the standings for both teams.”
Brand (Spain):
“An exhilarating showdown at Ibrox concluded 1-1, leaving progression to the next round up for grabs. Rangers, hoping to consolidate their standing, showed resilience but couldn’t capitalize fully on their early lead. Both sides displayed glimpses of brilliance while also revealing their vulnerabilities as they look ahead to crucial remaining fixtures.”
