UEFA “to look into” Rangers vs. Athletic Bilbao drama as video is examined – Exclusive
Rangers managed to struggle to a 0-0 draw in the first leg of their Europa League quarterfinal matchup with Athletic Bilbao on Thursday, and Liam Kelly was a huge hero.
After a VAR review, Robin Propper was sent off for a professional foul on Inaki Williams, forcing the Bears to play more than ninety minutes with ten men.
However, VAR’s involvement didn’t end there. Following Alex Berenguer’s goal that was disallowed, Dujon Sterling was assessed to have been handled in the box.
After a review, Istvan Kovacs pointed to the spot, but Kelly stopped the subsequent penalty to earn a valiant draw, so he may now face more action.
UEFA to investigate Rangers saga
Keith Hackett has called for UEFA to look into the penalty’s granting, claiming that he reviewed multiple replays and found no clarity in them.
Hackett exclusively told Ibrox News, “I hope that the incident where a goal was ruled out for offside and then a penalty kick awarded is investigated.”
“After watching the clip multiple times, I don’t think the video replays are clear enough to make an accurate judgement on either choice.
“I can only suggest that the game was using the semi-automated offside system to determine the offside decision.
“I do not see a deliberate action to be able to determine with certainty that the alleged handling of the ball was deliberate in order to award a penalty kick.”
Rangers have Europa League on the line in Bilbao
All of this builds to next Thursday’s thrilling return leg in Bilbao.
Rangers will also be mindful of the Spaniards’ current style of play, as every infraction and call results in demands and complaints, and VAR is probably going to be busy once more.
| Rangers | Athletic Bilbao |
| Propper sent off – 13 | |
| Sannadi penalty denied – 53 | |
| Berenguer penalty missed – 81 |
However, UEFA might caution their officials before the second leg shootout for a berth in the semi-finals against Manchester United or Lyon if they investigate the drama at Ibrox.
With a night full of pyrotechnics but no goals, Barry Ferguson will still want this team to play with the same passion, and the interim manager will also receive a booking.
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