Qudus SalihuRangers legend Kris Boyd has launched a scathing attack on the Ibrox squad following their disastrous 3-1 defeat to FC Porto, a result that officially dumped the Glasgow giants out of the UEFA Europa League. In a performance described by pundits as “shameful,” Rangers surrendered an early lead at the Estádio do Dragão, collapsing under pressure and failing to secure the points needed to progress from the single league phase. Boyd, speaking on Sky Sports, reserved his harshest criticism for the defensive unit, particularly center-back Emmanuel Fernandez, who was “torn apart” during a chaotic first half.
The former striker was visibly incensed by the manner of Porto’s goals, most notably Fernandez’s own goal just before halftime, which effectively killed the contest. “It’s not just about the technical errors; it’s the lack of leadership and awareness,” Boyd fumed. He pointed to a catastrophic breakdown in communication during Francisco Moura’s go-ahead goal, where a collision between goalkeeper Jack Butland and a defender allowed the Porto man a simple finish. For Boyd, this wasn’t an isolated incident but a symptom of a deeper rot within a squad that has struggled with the “mental and cultural demands” of representing the club throughout the 2025/26 campaign.
The defeat leaves Rangers in 32nd position in the overall table, a humbling exit for a club that reached the final of this competition only a few years ago. Boyd argued that several senior players were “hiding” when the pressure mounted, suggesting that the current group lacks the resilience required for top-level European football. While the club’s board recently admitted to recruitment mistakes under previous management, Boyd insisted that the responsibility for this “unacceptable” display lies solely with the players on the pitch. As Rangers turn their focus back to a domestic title race against Hearts and Celtic, Boyd’s verdict serves as a stark warning: without a massive shift in attitude, more European nights like this are inevitable.
Qudus Salihu
Mustapha Sheidu
