After an underwhelming Champions League campaign, Borussia Dortmund will look to respond in the Europa League when they host Rangers in the first leg of their knockout tie on Thursday.
Dortmund dropped into Europe’s second-tier competition after finishing third in their Champions League group. They are now among the favourites to go all the way and lift the trophy, which would represent their first piece of silverware in Europe since 1996-97.
Marco Rose’s side have blown hot and cold of late, winning just two of their last four games in all competitions.
Rangers, meanwhile, have bounced back after a dismal start to the year. They have won three straight games without conceding a goal, keeping pace with league-leaders Celtic.
The Scottish giants do not have a great record against German opposition, having lost seven of their last eight matches.
Borussia Dortmund vs Rangers – Team News
Borussia Dortmund
Erling Haaland missed a recent training session and is unlikely to be available for this game, meaning Donyell Malen could get the nod upfront.
Marcel Schmelzer and Thorgan Hazard are major doubts, while Thomas Meunier faces a race against time to prove his fitness.
Rangers
Rangers boss Giovanni van Bronckhorst rested several players for the cup win against Annan and they could all return to the side for this clash.
Alfredo Morelos will replace Kemar Roofe in attack, with the likes of Ryan Kent, Glen Kamara and James Tavernier also returning.
Ianis Hagi is a long-term absentee, while Leon Balogun is a doubt after sustaining an injury last time out.
Borussia Dortmund vs Rangers – Predicted Lineups
Borussia Dortmund Predicted Lineup (4-3-3): Kobel; Akanji, Zagadou, Hummels, Schulz; Bellingham, Can, Dahoud; Reus, Brandt, Malen
Rangers Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1): McGregor; Tavernier, Goldson, Barisic, Bassey; Kamara, Ramsey; Kent, Aribo, Diallo; Morelos
Borussia Dortmund vs Rangers – Key Players
Borussia Dortmund – Donyell Malen
With Haaland expected to miss out, the goal-scoring burden will fall on the shoulders of Donyell Malen. The Netherlands international has not really found his stride following his arrival from PSV. He has netted just six times in all competitions so far, but his pace and dribbling ability make him a threat against any defence.
Rangers – Aaron Ramsey
The Welsh midfielder has joined Rangers on loan from Juventus and will have an important role to play in this game. Ramsey’s ability to drive his team forward and open up defences will be key against a team that’s likely to leave plenty of spaces in midfield.
