Rangers Vs Benfica: Europa League Drama and Bet Builder Strategies for the Second Leg Showdown
Image Credit: Jim Easton
Last Thursday in the Europa league we saw a 2-2 draw in the first leg between European giants Rangers and Benfica at the Estadio da Luz. Rangers opened the scoring with a brilliant headed goal from Welshman Tom Lawrence. Then legendary player Angel Di Maria slotted the ball from the spot to give Benfica the equaliser to keep them in the game. Just before half time former Benfica youngster Fabio Silva cuts back to assist the man in form at the moment Dujon Sterling. Nearly half an hour into the second half a moment of madness occurred for rangers, with Benfica having a free kick outside the box. As the ball is whipped in it seems like it should be a straightforward save for Jack Butland, instead centre back Conor Goldson goes to clear the ball with a header that unfortunately gives Benfica their second equaliser.
The Bets
With the second leg upon us this Thursday, I would back Rangers to get a result at home and progress to the quarter finals. Since 2017 Rangers have only lost 3 times out of 32 at home. With those defeats coming against strong clubs like Leverkusen and Lyon. Also, with Rangers’ success in this competition over the last few years I believe they have the experience to edge out Benfica in this second leg.
Bet Builder 1
Both teams to score- Yes
Angel Di Maria – Over 1.5 shots on target
James Tavernier – Over 1.5 shots on target
22/1 (Bet 365)
With Di Maria and Tavernier both on set pieces and important players in these team’s attack, this is great odds for this game.
Bet Builder 2
Cyriel Dessers – Over 0.5 shots
Alexandre Rafa Silva – Over 0.5 shots on target
Over 3 cards
Rangers to qualify.
9/2 (Bet 365)
With Dessers and Rafa Silva getting plenty of shots lately this should land. Both teams have been getting several cards in recent games and I back rangers at home to get through this round of sixteen.
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