Mourinho Remains Defiant Despite Fenerbahce's 3-1 Defeat to Rangers

Sports Football

Posted by NewAdmin on 2025-03-07 08:53:07 |

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Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho has labeled his team's 3-1 loss to Rangers in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie as "a good result," considering their subpar performance. The defeat in Istanbul ended Fenerbahce's impressive 18-match unbeaten streak, but Mourinho insists the tie is far from over.

Rangers seized an early advantage when Cyriel Dessers capitalized on a defensive lapse to score within six minutes. Fenerbahce responded on the half-hour mark with a volley from Alexander Djiku. However, Rangers regained the lead before halftime through Vaclav Cerny, who later secured his brace in the 81st minute, giving the Scottish side a two-goal cushion heading into the second leg.

Mourinho was candid in his assessment, stating, "We were very bad everywhere. I think it's not fair to say we were very bad in defence, because we were very bad everywhere." He acknowledged that the scoreline could have been worse, crediting Rangers' goalkeeper Jack Butland for three crucial saves. Despite the setback, Mourinho remains optimistic: "If somebody later wants to ask me do I think it's over, no, I don't think it's over. There is 90 or 120 minutes to play."

Rangers' interim manager, Barry Ferguson, echoed a cautious approach, emphasizing that the tie is only at halftime. He praised his team's commitment and execution but warned against complacency, acknowledging Mourinho's tactical prowess and the challenges that lie ahead in the return leg at Ibrox Stadium.

The second leg is poised to be a thrilling encounter, with Fenerbahce aiming to overturn the deficit and Rangers striving to maintain their advantage. Both teams will need to exhibit resilience and strategic acumen to progress to the quarter-finals.

Go!