Dessers' Last-Gasp Equaliser Secures Crucial Draw for Rangers Against Dynamo Kyiv

Rangers 1-1 Dynamo Kyiv: Champions League Hopes Still Alive After Late Drama

Cyriel Dessers' dramatic 94th-minute equaliser earned Rangers a crucial first-leg draw against Dynamo Kyiv, keeping their Champions League qualification hopes alive.

The Ibrox club, under mounting pressure due to a shaky start to the season, fell behind to Andriy Yarmolenko's first-half opener. The Ukrainian veteran capitalised on a lapse in the Rangers' defense to slot home, putting Kyiv in the driving seat.

In a match played at the half-full Lublin Arena due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, Philippe Clement's side struggled to find their rhythm. Their performance mirrored the frustrations of their recent goalless draw with Heart of Midlothian, as they squandered numerous chances and appeared vulnerable at the back.

However, much-maligned forward Dessers provided a glimmer of hope with a close-range finish, the final kick of the match, salvaging a 1-1 draw that could prove priceless. His goal, a result of relentless pressure in the dying moments, was a lifeline for the Scottish side.

Next Tuesday's second leg, live on BBC Scotland, will be played at Hampden Park due to ongoing construction work at Ibrox. This means that neither team will have the advantage of playing their home tie in their own ground, adding another layer of complexity to the encounter.

The winner of the tie will advance to face either RB Salzburg or FC Twente for a place in the 2024-25 Champions League group stage. The Austrians will take a 2-1 lead to the Netherlands in their own second leg.

Rangers will need to address their inefficiencies and defensive frailties if they are to overcome Dynamo Kyiv and move one step closer to Europe's premier club competition. The next match promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams vie for a coveted spot in the Champions League.