Rangers vs Real Betis. UEFA Europa League Group C.
Ibrox StadiumAttendance45,634.
Match report as Abdallah Sima scores second-half winner for Rangers in opening Europa League Group C match; Michael Beale's side hit woodwork twice in second period; Jack Butland keeps clean sheet by producing several big saves to deny Real Betis taking point at Ibrox
Friday 22 September 2023 10:22, UK
Abdallah Sima's second-half goal delivered a 1-0 victory for Rangers against Real Betis in their opening Europa League match at Ibrox.
The forward poked home a shot from close range in the 67th minute to settle a competitive match between the two favourites to progress from Group C.
Michael Beale's side also struck the frame of the goal twice in a strong second-half display and had goalkeeper Jack Butland to thank for making several key saves, especially in the opening period.
Betis pushed for a leveller but two big saves from Butland late on denied substitute Rodri from snatching his side a point.
Rangers could have been in front within five minutes when Kemar Roofe's searching pass sent Rabbi Matondo running clear but his weak shot was easily saved by Claudio Bravo.
Betis' response came from a driven effort from Abdessamad Ezzalzouli that Butland did well to save before he pushed away another Ezzalzouli shot from a tight angle.
It was end to end at this point and a rare mis-step from the impressive Isco saw him drag a shot wide after good play by Hector Bellerin down the Betis right.
Ezzalzouli then lashed a shot over the top and saw another effort repelled by Butland as the Spaniards pushed for the lead.
At the other end, Sima could not get enough purchase on his effort before Matondo was wasteful with another attempt before the break.
The Welshman looked to have a great chance early in the second half with Sima's cross coming his way only for Bellerin to steer it clear for a corner.
Tom Lawrence struck the outside of a post with a long-range effort and Barisic then hit the top of a crossbar from a free-kick just outside the box after Marc
Rangers' winner finally arrived when Sima slammed in a loose ball as Betis failed to properly deal with a goalmouth scramble after Bravo made a stunning stop to repel Roofe's volley.
Rangers manager Michael Beale: "It was a big result and well done to the players.
"We had a couple of big moments in the first half, particularly with Rabbi (Matondo) going clean through.
"We did not settle until after 35 minutes and that is something that has been recurring. In the second half I thought we were outstanding and the goal typified that.
"For everybody else it is just a goal off a set-play but we win four first contacts before the goal. In tight games that is what we need to do more of.
"I knew it would be tough and I told the players that at half-time. I told them to step over the line, to commit to the game fully and not be a seven out of 10.
"We have had a couple of bangs on the head this season and we have heard it loud and clear from the outside.
"We have had two clean sheets since the international break and that is a real positive sign.
"But, nothing is done. It is just one performance. I don't think we can come off of each other just now.
"We came into the season and what we were seeing behind the scenes were really positive signs then the results and performances have not been in line with that.
"The first thing is showing passion and desire, I think the quality will come over time with results and confidence.
"It's too early for me to start talking and giving the team praise. We need to go again at the weekend."
Rangers return to Scottish Premiership action on Sunday at home to Motherwell. Kick-off 3pm.
Their next Europa League match is away to Aris Limassol on October 5. Kick-off 5.45pm.
