Have a loss-proof bet on Rangers' Euro tie
After their most successful Champions League campaign in five years ended with a disappointing third-placed finish, Rangers return to the second most prestigious continental competition, the Europa League, this evening looking to replicate their heroic run to the final three seasons ago.
They knocked out several big names that time round, including Panathinaikos, Werder Bremen and Fiorentina, but in terms of European pedigree and history, one of their greatest conquests was Sporting Lisbon, and they are reunited with the Portuguese giants at Ibrox this evening in the round of 16.
The Gers are [2.48] to triumph and while that may appear a tempting price for a team whose home fans have a reputation for delivering a magnificent atmosphere, especially on occasions such as this, our counter-intuitive instinct is to oppose them at [2.5], a punt that pays £16.67 for a £25 outlay.
Thanks to our special offer for those opening new Betfair accounts, you can bet up to £30 on this match or anything else that catches your eye within seven days of signing up and any losing wagers will be refunded, so there's no absolutely no risk involved.
When the clubs met in 2007-08, they shared a goalless draw in Scotland with Rangers progressing with a 2-0 victory in the Portuguese capital. Doing the business away has been an even more regular theme for the Glasgow giants this season, as they've dropped more points as hosts, suffering three defeats.
Sporting are another side that prefer life on the road, having collected 61 per cent of their domestic points on their travels. They also boasted a perfect away record in Europe that included a win over Ligue 1 leaders Lille prior to losses to Gent and Levski Sofia once progress was almost certain.
That trend perhaps lends itself to a flutter on the visitors at [3.3], though the most attractive option for a loss-proof wager on this encounter is arguably under 2.5 goals at [1.73], having been a feature of eight of Walter Smith's men's last nine European ties. Under 1.5 goals also appeals at [3.1].
Rangers v Sporting Lisbon
Kick-off: 8.05pm
Live on ESPN
Disagree? Rangers are [4.5] to ease to a half-time and full-time success...
Published: 17 Feb 2011
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