Who will win Rangers vs Real Betis? Our writers predict the Europa League opener at Ibrox

There's been heat building on the gaffer but Rangers know all about what a good Europa League run can bring.

The Light Blues return to the competition they reached the final of in 2022 when they meet Real Betis at Ibrox on Thursday. Rangers find themselves in Group C alongside Manuel Pellegrini's side, Sparta Prague and Aris Limassol, with fans expecting to see some progression after being bumped out of the Champions League play-offs in humbling fashion by PSV.

Boss Michael Beale has had questions over his future in Glasgow building up after a derby defeat to Celtic earlier this month, but a win over St Johnstone at the weekend has eased pressure ever so slightly. But it can be further alleviated should they manage to get a win over a side expected to be a stronger contender in this Europa League section. How do our writers see it going? Record Sport's team have looked at how it all may pan out in Govan.

The Spaniards are likely to be the toughest opponents in Rangers’ group but they have injury worries, particularly among their goalkeepers, so Beale’s team have to have a go at them. I reckon it’ll be fairly open, with chances at both ends, and a draw wouldn’t be the worst result for the Scots.

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Michael Beale is still looking for his first landmark win as boss and this might be the night he finally gets it. Yes his team have struggled this season and injuries are biting but as was shown when Gers were last in the Europa League, the power of Ibrox can have an uplifting effect on the Light Blues which might be too much for a Betis side reeling from their five-goal thumping at the Nou Camp to handle.

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Rangers boss Michael Beale badly needs his season to spark to life and a