Rangers Women’s team faced disappointment in their UEFA Women’s Champions League first-round play-off, losing 3-0 to Atletico Madrid at Meadow Park, London. Both teams were competing for third place in their section after suffering defeats in their respective semi-finals. Rangers had fallen to Arsenal, while Atletico Madrid lost to Rosenborg. The Scottish side, coached by Jo Potter, struggled to match the intensity of their Spanish counterparts, who capitalized on key moments to claim a convincing win.
A Difficult Evening for Rangers
Rangers entered the match hoping to salvage some pride after their defeat against Arsenal in the semi-finals. However, Atletico Madrid proved to be a formidable opponent from the outset. Rangers, who finished as runners-up in the Scottish Women’s Premier League (SWPL) last season, found it difficult to break through Atletico’s organized defence.
Atletico took the lead three minutes before half-time when Synne Jensen scored the opener, giving the Spanish side a crucial advantage as they headed into the break. Jensen’s goal was a result of persistent attacking pressure from Atletico, who were determined to end their tournament on a positive note.
Rangers, meanwhile, struggled to maintain possession and create clear opportunities in the final third. Their efforts to push forward were frequently stifled by Atletico’s disciplined defensive structure, and the Scottish side found themselves on the back foot for much of the game.
Atletico’s Clinical Performance
Atletico Madrid’s determination to win was evident in the second half as they continued to press Rangers, seeking to extend their lead. Their persistence paid off in the 66th minute when Sheila Guijarro doubled Atletico’s advantage. The goal came after a well-worked move down the left flank, with Guijarro expertly finishing the chance to put the game firmly in the Spanish side’s control.
Rangers tried to respond, but they were unable to build meaningful attacks, struggling against Atletico’s well-drilled midfield and defensive lines. The Scottish side looked tired as the game wore on, perhaps reflecting the mental and physical toll of the competition.
Atletico capitalized on Rangers’ fatigue and sealed the win with a third goal in the 80th minute, courtesy of Vilde Boe Risa. The Norwegian international finished off another strong move from Atletico, confirming the Spanish side’s dominance and effectively ending any hopes of a Rangers comeback.
Jo Potter Reflects on the Match
After the match, Rangers manager Jo Potter acknowledged the challenge posed by Atletico Madrid but remained optimistic about her team’s development. “It was a tough match against a strong team, but these are the types of matches that will help us grow as a team,” Potter said. “We’ll learn valuable lessons from this and take the positives into our domestic campaign.”
Potter praised her players for their effort despite the defeat, noting that competing against top European sides is essential for Rangers’ progression. She also highlighted the importance of focusing on their league performance moving forward, with the SWPL set to resume soon.
“We’ll regroup and turn our focus to the league,” Potter added. “There’s a plenty of work ahead, but I’m confident this team will bounce back stronger.”
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