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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
David Irvine

Van Bronckhorst confident of Europa League comeback as he insists 'Ibrox will give us energy'

Giovanni van Bronckhorst in Rangers confidence message as he points to Ibrox factor in Europa League

GIOVANNI van Bronckhorst has remained confident Rangers can overturn a slender one-goal deficit at Ibrox next week.

The Dutchman watched his side fall to a late 1-0 defeat in Germany but is positive about Rangers' chances in front of a packed Ibrox next Thursday.

Van Bronckhorst praised his players for their stellar defensive showing against Leipzig which was only undone by a fabulous volley from Angelion five minutes from time.

Asked for his take on his players' performance, Van Bronckhorst told BT Sport: "Really good, we were very organised and we didn't give many chances away.

"I think Allan had some good saves. I think especially the first-half was more m making sure they could not create goals but on the ball we were not as confident as we were in the second half.

"It's always disappointing if you lose a game so late in the game.

"It's a 1-0 defeat, I think the players played really well and we know what to do next week.

"We play at home and Ibrox will give us the energy to give everything."

Rangers now go into the second-leg with a goal disadvantage but the backing of 50,000 at Ibrox - and Van Bronckhorst has insisted the crowd factor could be a major factor.

Insisting his side are capable of a comeback to reach the final of the Europa League, he said: "We did. I think they have the quality upfront and with the subs they made. I think we had a good overall display.

"Of course next week we have to win so we have to make sure to attack them at the right moments with more bodies.

"But a 1-0 defeat, and at home in Europe we can overcome that."

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