Match Summary
Benfica defeated Rangers 1:0. The match was played in UEFA Europa League 2023. Goals were scored by Rafa 66′. 2 yellow cards were shown. Rangers had 59% possession while Benfica held 41%. Rangers had 12 shots (3 on target) compared to 14 (4 on target) for Benfica. Expected goals: Rangers 0.65 — Benfica 1.61. Rangers made 4 substitutions, Benfica made 4. VAR was involved: Goal confirmed (Rafa Silva 69′).
Match Events
Key match events between Rangers and Benfica — 1 goals and 2 cards recorded during the match.
assist: Á. Di María
Match Statistics
Rangers had 59% possession against Benfica's 41%. Rangers registered 12 shots (3 on target) while Benfica managed 14 (4 on target). Corner kicks: 8–6. Fouls committed: 8–4.
Lineups
Rangers lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation under P. Clement, while Benfica deployed a 4-2-3-1 under R. Schmidt.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Rangers is 7.00, compared to 7.30 for Benfica. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Rangers's highest-rated starter is J. Souttar (7.16), while Benfica's best-rated player is Á. Di María (8.06).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Rangers have contributed 18 goals and 4 assists this season, led by C. Dessers (18G). Benfica's starters account for 8 goals and 7 assists, spearheaded by Á. Di María (4G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Rangers deploy 4 defenders rated 7.03 on average, against Benfica's 4-man backline averaging 7.20. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Rangers field 5 midfielders averaging —, versus Benfica's 5 rated 8.06. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Rangers start 1 forward(s) averaging 6.94, compared to 1 for Benfica averaging —. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages 88% for Rangers and 82% for Benfica. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Rangers's starters have collected 5 yellow cards this season, compared to 8 for Benfica. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Rangers's starting XI is 28.0 (youngest: R. Yılmaz (24), oldest: C. Dessers (31)), while Benfica average 28.2 (youngest: António Silva (22), oldest: Á. Di María (37)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Rangers's starters average 21 league appearances each, versus 20 for Benfica. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Rangers have recorded 3 wins, 3 draws and 0 defeats. Benfica show 4 wins, 1 draws and 1 losses from their last 6 outings.
Rangers
Benfica
API data: 15 Mar 2026