Three Super Eagles stars help Rangers reach first European final since 2008 after win vs RB Leipzig

Nigeria internationals Joe Aribo and Calvin Bassey were in the starting line up in Glasgow Rangers' 3-1 win against RB Leipzig in the return leg of their semifinals fixtures at the Ibrox Stadium on Thursday night  to reach the final of the UEFA Europa League 3-2 on aggregate.

Super Eagles star Aribo played in a three-man attack along with Ryan Kent and Wright while Calvin Bassey was deployed in a central defensive position.

Right back James Tavernier put Rangers ahead in the 18th minute when he poked home form close range after Ryan Kent's cross into the box.

Glen Kamara doubled the Gers' lead with a left footed shot to the bottom right corner in the 24th minute but Aribo missed a gilt-edged chance for Rangers to effectively put the game beyond the German Bundesliga side five minutes later.

Aribo required medical attention just before the end of the first half when the ball hit him on the face with some ferocity and had to be substituted by Zambian striker Fashion Sakala.

Super Eagles defender Leon Balogun came off the substitutes bench in the 59th minute in place of Ryan Jack in a tactical substitution.

With 20 minutes left to play, RB Leipzig's Christopher Nkunku produced an astonishing half volley after left back Angelino crossed tantalizingly into the box to make it 2-1 on the night but importantly for the Germans 2-2 on aggregate.

However John Lundstram scored yet again for Rangers to ensure their hosts are unable to come back.

Rangers will face another German Bundesliga club Eintracht Frankfurt, who defeated West Ham United 1-0 in the other semifinals, in the showpiece in Sevilla - their first European final since 2008.

Izuchukwu Michael

Photo Credit : uefa.com

Copyright ANS

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com