The Daily Star Ireland
The Europa League season for Manchester United has seen their characteristic moments of brilliance combined with inconsistent performances. The squad has the right mix of experience and talented youngsters. Rasmus Højlund leads the attack, supported by the ever-electric Marcus Rashford, as Bruno Fernandes and Christian Eriksen conduct midfield duties. There’s Victor Lindelöf to anchor the back four for stability in defense. It’s that proper mix of experience and energy in youth, really, to drive United forward into this competition.
The team opponent, Rangers on the other hand worked toward solidifying defense and bonding at a team under the coach, Peter Laviolette. Some disappointments could not break down the optimism in Laviovette, to install resilience. Artemi Panarin also proved to be very instrumental and scoring was from him; then Igors Shesterkin’s outstanding goalkeeping covered the team victory. The performance of Vincent Trocheck and Adam Fox also stays as vital.
The coming match at Old Trafford is going to be a real treat. Rangers come into this tie in good form, with convincing wins over Aberdeen 3-0 and St. Johnstone 3-1. Even in closer games, like the 1-1 draw with Dundee FC and an exciting 3-3 draw with Hibernian, Rangers showed grit and determination.
Manchester United must be wary of the attacking threat and adaptive gameplay of Rangers. The backline will be in for a tough test, while Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford will be important in trying to cut the momentum of Rangers. This will be a tactical game, with moments of individual brilliance and strategic gameplay as both teams try to take control of the match.
This mouth-watering fixture on January 23, 2025, is tipped to produce a shocking result: Rangers to win 3-1. Recent good form and the ability to dominate games should give them an edge over United. While United do have plenty of talent to make things difficult for Rangers, it is their relentless attacking and sound defensive structure that will earn them an impressive three points away from home. Their combination of offensive sharpness and defensive discipline might prove decisive.
Prediction
High-scoring games have been witnessed at Old Trafford this season, with nine of United’s last 12 home matches yielding over 2.5 goals. Rangers’ away matches have also seen goals galore, with six of their last eight away matches yielding over 2.5 goals. This will be an entertaining, goal-laden game.
Prediction: Manchester United 1 – 3 Rangers
