Domenico Tedesco admits RB Leipzig struggled to breach Rangers’ defensive quartet of Connor Goldson, Calvin Bassey, Allan McGregor and John Lundstram during Thursday’s UEFA Europa League semi-final first-leg in Germany, speaking to Tuttomercatoweb.
They say, sometimes, you don’t realise what you’ve got till it’s gone.
But everyone connected with Rangers Football Club will be acutely aware of how difficult Goldson will be to replace when his contract expires at the end of this season.
On a daunting evening in Saxony – as Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side faced by far the biggest test of their European campaign – Goldson did what he he’s done ever since Steven Gerrard and co took their first tentative steps into continental competition four years ago.
He stood strong, stood tall and put his body on the line in pursuit of another famous victory.
Can Rangers still reach the Europa League final?
“A difficult game. Usually Rangers do not defend so low. And, when you face a team that is on the pitch in this way, with very strong, physical central defenders, it is not easy for those who have to play the game and attack,” admits former Schalke coach Tedesco.
On the few occasions that Leipzig did breach Van Bronckhorst’s iron-clad backline – inspired by the excellent Goldson, Bassey and the versatile Lundstram – 40-year-old shot-stopper McGregor proved to be a reliable last line of defence.
“We found it difficult, especially in the first half,” says Tedesco. “Then we created some chances and we managed to score. McGregor was very good.”
- How Rangers’ XI could look in 22/23, including 5 new signings
- How West Ham’s XI could look in 22/23 with 4 new signings
Those at Red Bull Arena must have known that it would take something special to break the deadlock. And that’s exactly what happened.
Former Manchester City youngster Angelino ensured that Leipzig will have a one-goal lead to defend at Ibrox last week, thumping a brilliant volley into the bottom corner with 85 minutes on the clock.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
