Rangers centre-back Filip Helander was at fault for two of Benfica’s goals in the 3-3 draw in the Europa League yesterday evening.
The Swedish international’s error in the opening minute led to the Gers conceding almost straight after kick-off while he made another mistake which led to Rafa Silva scoring their second, helping the Portuguese team back into the match.
Fans on Twitter were critical of Helander’s display but the frustration was tempered by the fact that the 27-year-old has been so good in the backline at the start of the season:
Gives me the fear,always a mistake in him,got found out twice tonight, couldn’t lace Katic boots
— Scobie 72 (@scottsmidy) November 5, 2020
It happens. Big man has been immense in other games. Just love on.
The fact we’re gutted over a draw at Benfica shows how good things are going.
— Brad Dobbing (@DiegoMaradobbn) November 5, 2020
Should Have Been Taking Off
— Cameron Leroy (@djcammyno1) November 5, 2020
It happens, had a poor game by account of the goals conceded but hopefully he’s got rid of them all in this game ? not going to hold it against him, he’ll come back bigger and stronger. I still want to see that quick free kick that led to the 2nd and if the ball was still moving
— Graeme Horsburgh (@H0RSB0X) November 5, 2020
He had a howler, it’s done now. He’s a good player which is probably why some are surprised too and with us being ahead it felt more like a loss than a draw but just need to move on to the next
— ??? (@JenG1210) November 5, 2020
Would rather his off game happened in Europe as opposed to the league.
Even with a bad day at the back, still got a draw away from home against quality opposition, 90% of us would have took this before kick off.— JewAribo (@JewAribo) November 5, 2020
Should have been hooked at half time. Or re-enforced the defence when it went to 3-2. Just my opinion
— David Forbes (@daveyforbes) November 5, 2020
Rough with the smooth
— gazza-r (@Gazzaross1) November 5, 2020
Can’t play tremendous every game
— david curran (@davidcu64510359) November 5, 2020
It must be remembered that, up until last night, Steven Gerrard’s side had conceded only four goals in their opening 18 games this campaign, which is quite some achievement.
Even if Helander’s form does begin to suffer in the coming weeks, Rangers do have Leon Balogun to come into the side if they need him with the Nigerian having been equally as impressive since he was brought in on a free transfer in the summer.
