During the Europa League group stage matchMessepark Stadion, Russell Martin watched Rangers lose 2‑1 to Sturm Graz in front of a sparse crowd of roughly 12,000. The Austrian side took the lead early and never looked back, leaving the Scottish club’s manager under a cloud of criticism from fans who had travelled the 1,200 km hoping for a morale‑boosting European win.
Match overview
The game began on a patchy pitch that started to break up within minutes, a factor that kept the tempo low and the passes erratic. Rangers tried to impose themselves through a 4‑3‑3, but the compromised surface favoured the more compact Austrian defence.
Sturm Graz opened the scoring in the 12th minute. A routine throw‑in from the right flank was mishandled by captain James Tavernier, who slipped the ball into the path of Maurice Malone. Malone raced into the box and squared the ball to Torvat, whose low finish beat Jack Butland at the near post.
Just 18 minutes later, a set‑piece from the right saw Emanuel Aiwu whack a driven free‑kick into the crowded area. The ball ricocheted to Kiteishvili, who sprinted through and slotted home, making it 2‑0.
Rangers pulled one back in the 63rd minute when Chermiti, the £8 million Portuguese striker signed from Everton in July, headed a Gassama cross onto the cross‑bar and followed up with a close‑range effort that forced a save from Oliver Christensen. The rebound fell to the edge of the box, and Chermiti slotted a low finish to make it 2‑1, but the boost was too little, too late.
Key moments and tactical choices
Martin’s bold decision to start Chermiti and bench Bojan Miovski drew a lot of chatter. The newcomer was the most threatening attacker, winning aerial duels and creating space, yet the side‑footed striker could not force a second goal.
- Pitch condition: The turf broke up after the 5th minute, slowing ball rollout.
- Possession: Sturm Graz held 53% of the ball despite the hostile environment.
- Shots on target: 7 for Graz, 4 for Rangers.
- Key saves: Butland denied Belmin Beganovic and Torvat before the first goal.
Martin’s midfield shape—shifting to a 4‑2‑3‑1 after the first half—created a brief window of pressure, but the Austrian side’s compactness nullified any sustained threat.
Reactions and managerial pressure
Back in Glasgow, the Rangers supporters club posted a scathing thread on Twitter, writing, “We travelled 10 hours for a win. Instead we got a reminder of why Martin’s tenure feels precarious.” The club’s official Facebook page released a short statement praising the players’ effort but acknowledging “room for improvement”.
Martin, when asked at the post‑match press conference, said, “I’m disappointed with the result, especially the first‑half goals. The pitch wasn’t ideal, but we have to adapt. I stand by my selections and will review what we can change moving forward.”
European context and future implications
Rangers enter the final two group matches with three points from three games, sitting fourth in Group C behind Sturm Graz (7 points), Fiorentina (4) and PSV (3). The Scottish side needs at least a win and a draw in the last two fixtures to keep qualification hopes alive.
Historically, Rangers have a mixed record against Austrian clubs: five wins in seven meetings, yet they have lost the last two away trips to the country. Their previous visit to Graz in 1964 ended in a 1‑0 defeat, and a recent loss to Rapid Wien in 2023 (2‑0) still lingers in fans’ memories.
The defeat also adds to the growing chorus demanding a strategic review of the squad. The January transfer window looms, and rumors circulate that the club may consider bringing in a more physical centre‑back to cope with the physicality of Central European opposition.
What lies ahead for Rangers
Rangers travel to Rome next week for a crucial clash against Lazio. The match will be their first test against a Serie A side this season and offers a chance to reset the European campaign.
If Martin can tweak the formation to protect the back line while still exploiting Chermiti’s aerial presence, the squad could still salvage a spot in the knockout stage. Otherwise, the disappointment may spark a managerial review before the season’s final stretch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the loss affect Rangers' chances of advancing in the Europa League?
With three points from three games, Rangers sit last in Group C. They must win against Lazio in Rome and at least draw with Fiorentina to have any realistic shot at the knockout round. A single point from either match would likely see them finish third and be eliminated.
Why did Russell Martin choose Chermiti over Bojan Miovski for the starting XI?
Martin wanted a more direct aerial threat after the first half against Sturm Graz highlighted Rangers’ difficulty breaking down compact defences. Chermiti’s height and hold‑up play were seen as better suited for exploiting set‑pieces and crossing opportunities.
What were the main tactical shortcomings in Rangers' performance?
The side struggled to cope with the uneven pitch, often losing possession in midfield. Defensive positioning after the throw‑in error allowed Graz to capitalize, and the lack of a high‑press meant Graz could sit deep and launch quick counters.
Who were the standout players for Sturm Graz?
Maurice Malone’s quick reaction to the opening error and Torvat’s composure finishing made the difference. Additionally, Aiwu’s set‑piece delivery and Kiteishvili’s pace on the break earned them the winning margin.
What are the next steps for Rangers in the domestic league?
Rangers return to the Scottish Premiership later this week, facing Aberdeen at Ibrox. A win there would restore some confidence and keep their title chase alive, while also buying time to address the issues exposed in Austria.
