Rangers Outclassed by Ruthless Lyon at Ibrox

Rangers were brought back down to earth after their impressive Europa League win over Malmo, suffering a 4-1 defeat to Lyon at Ibrox. The French side, led by the electric Malick Fofana, showcased their superior quality in a dominant display.

Fofana, the standout performer, opened the scoring with a stunning strike into the corner early on. Rangers briefly gave their fans something to cheer about when Tom Lawrence capitalized on a mistake by Corentin Tolisso to level the match. However, Lyon quickly regained control, with Alexandre Lacazette slotting in after Fofana pounced on a poor backpass by Connor Barron.

Lacazette’s second goal, a thunderous strike, left Rangers goalkeeper Jack Butland with no chance. Fofana added his second of the night, tapping in after brilliant work by Rayan Cherki on the flank. Lyon could have added more, but Duje Caleta-Car’s header hit the post, and Tolisso’s follow-up was cleared off the line.

Rangers, despite showing some promise, struggled to finish their chances. Kieran Dowell’s dangerous strike was saved late on, but it was clear the Scottish side lacked the cutting edge needed to challenge Lyon’s soft defense.

The match highlighted the financial and quality gulf between the two sides, with Rangers unable to capitalize on their 16 shots compared to Lyon’s 15. James Tavernier, making his 49th Europa League appearance, saw his early effort saved, and Vaclav Cerny missed a golden opportunity to put Rangers ahead.

Lyon, featuring experienced stars like Lacazette, Nemanja Matic, and Corentin Tolisso, were the better team, but it was teenager Fofana who stole the show. His pace, power, and creativity wreaked havoc on the Rangers defense, leaving them helpless against Lyon’s counter-pressing style.

Rangers boss Philippe Clement lamented his side’s missed chances, acknowledging the harshness of the 4-1 scoreline but emphasizing the importance of finishing opportunities at this level. Despite the loss, Rangers’ Europa League campaign is far from over, but this defeat served as a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead.