Steven Gerrard identifies 'big challenges ahead' in Europa League but says Rangers are ready for Benfica test

A perfect Europa League campaign continued for Rangers when they defeated Lech Poznan 1-0 at Ibrox on Thursday night.

Rangers manager Steven Gerrard looks on as his team beat Lech Poznan 1-0 at Ibrox to stay level on points with Benfica at the top of Group D. (Photo by Alan Harvey / SNS Group)

Steven Gerrard’s team have now won all five of their games in the tournament so far this season – three in the qualifying rounds and their first two Group D fixtures.

But the Rangers manager knows the acid test is now on the horizon for his players who will head to Lisbon next week to face Benfica before the top seeds then come to Glasgow three weeks’ later.

The double header with the Portuguese giants could prove pivotal in Rangers’ bid to qualify from the group. Benfica swept Standard Liege aside 3-0 on Thursday and lead the way on goal difference from Gerrard’s side.

“It puts us in a good place with six points out of six and we have started the group strongly,” said Gerrard after Alfredo Morelos scored the only goal of the game against Lech Poznan.

"But there are big challenges ahead. Benfica are certainly the favourites in the group for a reason and they have got quality in the squad and players that are worth lots and lots of money. But when that game comes round we will make sure we are really for the challenge ahead.

"The players have delivered two really strong performances in the group so far and I am really proud and pleased of where we are sitting so far. I thought it was a strong, controlled and professional performance from my players against Poznan.”

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