The Scots are looking to consolidate their advantage: Jablonec vs Rangers prediction
The second leg of the Conference League qualifying play-off between Jablonec and Rangers will take place on 27 August at Stadion Střelnice. The Scottish club won the first meeting in Glasgow 1-0, meaning the hosts must overturn a narrow deficit to continue their pursuit of a place in the main stage of the competition.
Jablonec: a home comeback has already worked this summer
Luboš Kozel's side responded strongly to a poor start to their European campaign after losing 3-2 to Varaždin. The Czech team won the return leg 2-0, then eliminated RFS 3-1 on aggregate and put together a long winning streak that was only halted by their trip to Ibrox.
The 1-0 defeat leaves Jablonec with a realistic chance, especially given their successful experience in home second legs already this season. However, the level of opposition is now higher, and the hosts will need not only to attack but also to remain alert to the Scots' quick breaks.
Rangers: McInnes' side gradually finding their rhythm
Rangers looked the stronger side in the first meeting, enjoying 57% possession, registering 13 shots to their opponents' five and creating five clear-cut chances. Ryan Don Naderi scored the winner in the 50th minute, after which the Scots had to withstand late pressure following Cameron Devlin's dismissal.
After a difficult start under Derek McInnes, the team have finally begun to build momentum: a 5-1 thrashing of St Mirren was followed by victory over Jablonec. The main problem remains unchanged, however, as Rangers have lost their last seven away matches in European competition.
Match facts and head-to-head record
- Rangers won the first meeting 1-0.
- The Scottish club have lost their last seven away matches in European competition.
- Jablonec had won five consecutive matches in all competitions before their trip to Glasgow.
The visitors' quality could outweigh home advantage: Jablonec vs Rangers prediction
A one-goal advantage is not enough for Rangers simply to sit back and protect the score throughout the match. Jablonec are likely to play with greater intensity at home, but their need to push forward could leave space for the visitors to counter.
The first game showed a clear advantage for the Scots in terms of the quality of chances created. Despite their extremely poor away run in Europe, McInnes' side look capable of taking their opportunities again and settling the tie.
