Scottish clubs in Europe: Mixed fortunes and calls for improvement
Scottish Premiership sides endure a challenging week in European qualifying, with fans expressing frustration alongside hopes for second-leg turnarounds.
SNS
The Scottish football summer malaise continues as Premiership clubs navigate a testing start to their European campaigns. While some clubs struggled significantly, others managed to salvage results that offer at least a glimmer of optimism for the upcoming second legs.
Rangers suffered a 2-1 defeat against Jagiellonia Bialystok in Poland, leaving fans deeply concerned about the team's defensive structure and creative output. Supporters are calling for patience with new manager Derek McInnes, acknowledging that the club is in a difficult transition period. The tie remains alive, but the performance at Ibrox will need to be vastly improved to secure progression.
Hearts faced a brutal reality check in Lisbon, falling 6-1 to Benfica. Despite the heavy defeat, some fans noted improved competitiveness in the second half, though defensive lapses remain a major talking point. Head coach Wouter Vrancken faces mounting pressure from a fanbase eager for stability and better tactical organization.
Elsewhere, Hibernian secured a narrow 2-1 lead over Shkendija, though supporters were left unimpressed by the overall display. Meanwhile, Motherwell maintained their unbeaten start to the season with a gritty 1-1 draw in Finland against HJK Helsinki. Their supporters remain buoyant, hopeful that a strong crowd at Fir Park can help them navigate the next stage of competition.
There is still a lot to play for in the ties outside Hearts. Rangers, I still feel they'll come through that tie. Hibs proved they could show some good European performances last season, I think they'll be able to do that and come through the tie. Scott Allan