Soccer January 22, 2026

Rangers have found themselves in an uncomfortable position heading into the business end of the Europa League group phase. One solitary point from their opening six matches has left the Gers languishing in 33rd place, staring elimination squarely in the face. But here's the thing about Ibrox on a European night: that famous old ground has seen more dramatic turnarounds than a Christopher Nolan film. Soren Rohl's side needs nothing less than maximum points from their final two fixtures, and they'll fancy their chances against a Ludogorets side that's shipped 14 goals in six league phase matches.

The Bulgarian champions arrive in Glasgow with seven points and a mathematical chance of qualification, but their defensive fragility has been exposed repeatedly against quality opposition. Only one team in the entire competition has conceded more goals than Ludogorets. Key defensive injuries to Swedish internationals Edvin Kurtulus and Joel Andersson, plus midfielder Aguibou Camara, have left gaping holes that Rangers' in-form attack should relish exploiting. The Gers are riding a six-game winning streak across all competitions with four clean sheets during that run, scoring 15 goals in the process.

The January window has brought reinforcements that couldn't have come at a better time. While new signings Andreas Skov Olsen, Tochi Chukwuani, and Tuur Rommens are cup-tied for this competition, their arrival has added depth and allowed Rohl to rotate his squad more effectively. Dujon Sterling and Connor Barron remain sidelined, but Oliver Antman has recovered from illness and should feature. The Scottish giants have scored in 12 consecutive home matches across all competitions, and their supporters will create an atmosphere that can rattle any visiting side.

The Bottom Line

Rangers are desperate, dangerous, and playing at Ibrox under the lights. That's a cocktail that has intoxicated many visiting European sides over the decades. Ludogorets have beaten Malmo away and Celta Vigo at home, proving they're capable of results, but their defensive issues and injury problems make them vulnerable against a resurgent Rangers attack. The home side should control this one, though Ludogorets might nick a goal given their scoring record. Rangers win with both teams to score at 5/2 offers genuine value.

Two teams separated by just four places in the Europa League standings meet at one of Portugal's most dramatic football venues. Braga's Municipal Stadium, with its iconic quarry wall rising behind one goal, provides a fitting backdrop for what promises to be a crucial encounter. The hosts sit 7th with 11 points, while Nottingham Forest occupy 11th place with 10 points. Both clubs are well-positioned for direct qualification to the Round of 16, but neither can afford to take their foot off the gas with so much still to play for.

Forest's European adventure under Nuno Espirito Santo has been a revelation. The Portuguese manager's tactical nous has translated seamlessly to continental competition, with Forest's defensive solidity forming the foundation of their campaign. They arrive in Braga off the back of a 0-0 draw with Arsenal at the City Ground, a result that underlined their ability to frustrate elite opposition. Chris Wood's goal-scoring exploits have been well-documented in the Premier League, and he'll look to add to his European tally against a Braga defense that can be opened up.

Braga's biggest blow comes via suspension rather than injury. Rodrigo Zalazar, their top goalscorer and creative hub, misses out after picking up his third yellow card of the competition. His absence leaves a significant void in the final third that Carlos Carvalhal will need to find a way to fill. The Portuguese side got the job done in their most recent outing, a narrow 1-0 Primeira Liga win at Tondela courtesy of Zalazar's late strike, but European competition presents a different challenge entirely.

The Bottom Line

This is a fascinating tactical chess match between two well-organized sides. Braga's home record is solid, but Zalazar's absence is massive. Forest have proven they can travel in Europe, remaining unbeaten away from home in this competition. The +155 price on Forest to win looks generous given their form and Braga's suspension issues. If you prefer to eliminate the draw risk, Forest at -127 on the Draw No Bet market is the sharper play. A low-scoring affair wouldn't surprise anyone, but Forest have the tools to nick this one.