Glasgow Rangers must treat the Braga team with the proper degree of respect, but let’s hope they don’t overdo it on Wednesday night in the Europa League.
The Gers are holding a 3-2 advantage after an exhilarating game at Ibrox last week and must defend well to progress to the next round.
However, if Rangers show too much admiration to the Portuguese hosts, it will place the Scottish side as second favourites to through on the night.
I hope Steven Gerrard won’t allow his players to fall into the trap of displaying too much caution and attack at every possible opportunity.
The next two games are totally vital for the rest of Rangers’ season.
If the Gers manage to score first, then Braga need two goals to knock the visitors out of the Europa League.
If Gerrard picks the right balance between attacking and defending, it will give the opposition less chance of making it through to the last 16.
I reckon Rangers have a 60-40 chance to earn that place, but only if the players involved play to their ability, defend well and perform as a team.
Then it’s onto Saturday’s William Hill Scottish Cup clash with Hearts at Tynecastle, where Rangers lost 2-1 in the recent SPFL battle for points.
The Edinburgh clash should be the easier of the two, as Hearts are still rooted to the bottom of the table.
Let’s hope these tough away matches won’t end Gerrard’s quest for winning silverware this season with Rangers.
Remember: Braga must score – Rangers don’t have to.
