RYAN KENT was the hero in Braga as his goal made sure of a spot in the Europa League last 16.
Rangers travelled to Portugal with a slender advantage after a stunning comeback at Ibrox last week.
Ryan Kent mobbed by his Rangers team-mates after his goalCredit: AP:Associated Press
And Steven Gerrard’s men turned up on the big occasion once more during this European campaign and stunned the in-form Portuguese side.
The Light Blues had numerous chances in the first half and could have been out of sight after big early chances for Flo Kamberi and Kent.
Scott Arfield and Kamberi broke through the Braga defence after just nine minutes but the on-loan Hibs striker could only hit his effort straight at Matheus in the Braga goal.
Ten minutes later, Kent was guilty of missing a huge chance after some brilliant play on the wing by Ianis Hagi.
Ianis Hagi was denied from the spot but it didn’t prove costly for GersCredit: Reuters
He found the £7million man in the centre of the goal but he diverted his shot wide of the goal.
Braga grew into the contest and created a couple of chances of their own but Allan McGregor was on hand to deny the hosts.
Rangers were presented with a huge opportunity right on half-time after being awarded a penalty following a handball in the box.
Gerrard’s side have been guilty of missing from the spot this season on more than one occasion.
Kent expertly finishes for RangersCredit: Willie Vass – The Sun
This time the responsibility was on the shoulders on last week’s hero Hagi but his effort was well-saved by Matheus – much to the Braga No1’s delight.
The Ibrox men continued to press in the second half and found the goal their play deserved on the hour.
A stunning ball over the top from Hagi found the pacey Kent who rushed in on goal before firing his shot low into the net.
The goal sparked wild scenes on the pitch and in the stands.
Braga were close to a leveller on 70 minutes but Paulinho smashed the base of the post with a header from six yards.
Scott Arfield then had the ball in the net after Connor Goldson was denied from a stunning Matheus save – but his effort was ruled out for offside.
Rangers held out to secure another stunning European result and a place in Friday’s draw.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
