Lyon captain Alexandre Lacazette rolled back the years with a sublime performance, scoring twice in a dominant 4-1 victory over Rangers at Ibrox in the Europa League. His two goals, coupled with a brace from rising star Malick Fofana, left Rangers stunned in front of their home crowd. While Tom Lawrence briefly revived Rangers’ hopes with an equalizer in the first half, Lyon’s quality proved too much for the Scottish side, with Lacazette’s wonder goal sealing the result.
The defeat puts Rangers in a difficult position in the group stage, while Lyon’s commanding performance showcased their intent to go deep in this season’s European competition.
A Missed Opportunity for Rangers
Rangers had started the match with optimism, buoyed by recent domestic form and the lively atmosphere at Ibrox. However, early signs of their fragility were on display when captain James Tavernier spurned a golden chance to give the hosts the lead. The fullback found himself with space in the box but couldn’t direct his shot on target. Moments later, Lyon nearly capitalized when Vlacav Cerny missed an even better opportunity, blazing a sitter over the bar from just seven yards out.
Despite these missed chances, it was clear that Lyon’s superior technical ability would soon come into play. And it didn’t take long.
Fofana’s Opening Strike
In the 23rd minute, Lyon broke the deadlock through Malick Fofana, a highly-rated Belgian teenager who showcased his composure and skill. The goal was set up by a brilliant piece of close control from Rayan Cherki, Lyon’s young playmaker, who dribbled into the Rangers box before laying off a perfect pass to Fofana. The 18-year-old coolly slotted past Rangers goalkeeper Jack Butland to put Lyon 1-0 up.
Fofana, who is beginning to make a name for himself on the European stage, had a standout performance and caused Rangers’ defense problems throughout the match.
Rangers Hit Back Through Lawrence
Lyon’s lead lasted only a few minutes, as Rangers responded almost immediately with a fortunate equalizer. Cyriel Dessers found himself in a prime position after a disastrous defensive header from Corentin Tolisso back toward his own goal. However, the striker couldn’t convert, but the ball fell kindly for Tom Lawrence, who made no mistake in capitalizing on the error.
Lawrence’s goal, his second in as many games, brought Rangers level at 1-1, offering a glimmer of hope for the home side.
Lacazette and Fofana Reignite Lyon’s Attack
As the first half wore on, Lyon regained control, with Lacazette and Fofana continuing to link up in dangerous areas. Rangers were undone by a mistake from Connor Barron, whose blind pass was intercepted by Fofana. The teenager seized the opportunity, driving toward the penalty area before unselfishly squaring the ball to Lacazette. The veteran forward, who has spent the majority of his career punishing defenses across Europe, calmly tucked the ball into the back of the net to restore Lyon’s lead.
Lyon entered the break with a 2-1 lead, and despite Rangers’ attempts to rally in the second half, the French side’s quality and experience began to take over.
Lacazette’s Stunning Strike
In the second half, Lyon turned the screw, with Lacazette producing a moment of magic that effectively ended the contest. The 32-year-old forward received the ball on the edge of the box, took a touch to set himself, and unleashed a stunning strike that flew past Butland and into the top corner. It was a goal that reminded everyone of Lacazette’s enduring class and put Lyon in firm control with a 3-1 lead.
The wonder goal knocked the wind out of Rangers, who struggled to regain momentum as the match slipped away from them. With the home crowd silenced, Lyon grew in confidence and began to dictate the tempo.
Fofana Seals the Victory
As Rangers pushed forward in search of a way back into the game, they left themselves exposed at the back. Lyon took full advantage in the 75th minute when Fofana completed his brace. The youngster was once again involved in a slick passing move, finding himself unmarked at the back post to tap in from close range, putting the final nail in Rangers’ coffin.
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