Rangers 'aggression' means Benfica must think fast as club legend makes belief demand if Lisbon giants

Former Benfica star Antonio Simoes has branded Rangers "aggressive" and has warned the Portuguese they'll have to think fast to come out on top against the Scottish league leaders.

The duo were paired together in Friday's Europa League round of 16 draw. Philippe Clement's side will head to Lisbon on March 7 before the second leg at Ibrox a week later. The Light Blues have already blasted UEFA for scheduling that game at 5.45pm rather than th eusual 8.00pm slot, citing "significant disruption' for their fans.

Simoes reckons the timing of the games WILL have an affect. But he is predicting a tricky tie for Roger Schmidt's side. Like Rangers, they are top of the pile domestically, although only lead the Liga Portugal on goal difference from city rivals Sporting CP. And Simoes, who spent 14 years with the two-time European Cup winners, can't pick a favourite to go through.

He told Record : “In theory, it wasn’t the easiest or the most difficult. The timing of the matches and the calendar will certainly have an influence. We’re up against a team with players who are very aggressive and committed.

“Benfica need to be more aggressive in their thinking, they need to think faster and believe in themselves a lot more. Given the football culture of the two countries, it’s best to leave everything open.”