Rangers vs SL Benfica Predictions and Betting Tips
Rangers play hosts to Benfica in another highly-anticipated game this Thursday. High-flying Rangers look to get the maximum points they missed in their last encounter with the Portuguese giants. Read on for our free predictions and betting tips.
Both sides played out a six-goal thriller in their reverse match early this month. Rangers will feel a little hard done by as they threw away a two-goal lead to 10-men Benfica as both sides played out a 3-3 draw.
Exciting encounter on the cards
Neutrals will definitely look forward to this matchup taking into account their previous meeting. This might not be the case for their fans as they would like for their respective teams to be solid in defence.
The Rangers faithful will certainly feel that sense of security at the back as their side has managed eight clean sheets in their last nine games. This resolute defending has helped them to a 20-match unbeaten run with their last loss dating back to the knockout stage of the last Europa League campaign.
Benfica, on the other hand, has fallen off the hurdle a little in recent weeks. Although they showed character in Portugal to fight back from two goals down while being a man down, they have managed only one win in their last four games. Their defensive record hasn't been the best either, shipping nine goals in the same period.
Rangers vs Benfica Team News
Otamendi is expected to miss out of this game following his red card in the reverse fixture. Nunez and Weigl are also unavailable with both players in self-isolation. Gerard will be heading to the match with a full squad to pick from with all his players fit and ready to go.
Rangers possible starting XI:
McGregor; Tarvernier, Goldson, Balogun, Barisic; Jac, Aribo, Arfield; Kent, Hagi, Morelos
Benfica possible starting XI:
Vlachodimos; Grimaldo, Vertonghen, Jardel, Gilberto; Rafa, Taarabt, Gabriel, Everton; Pizzi; Seferovic
The winner of this encounter will most likely point out the winner of the group. As such, given their amazing record, we believe Rangers will pull through with a narrow 2-1 victory.
