“Ianis Hagi’s Instant Impact in B Team Clash Sparks Questions About Rangers Future”
Ianis Hagi made an immediate impact in a rare appearance for Rangers, reminding manager Philippe Clement of his potential value. The Romanian, who has been out of favor at Ibrox, was loaned to Alaves in La Liga last summer under previous coach Michael Beal and was left out of the Champions League squad for the crucial qualifier against Dynamo Kiev.
A long-term injury had sidelined him, and after failing to reclaim his spot in the first team, he spent the season away from Govan.
After impressing for Romania at Euro 2024, Hagi was likely hoping to break back into the Rangers first team, especially after they failed to score in their Scottish Premiership opener against Hearts at Tynecastle. Instead, he featured in a B team match, and just three minutes into the game against Middlesbrough, he set up Findlay Curtis, who scored to put Rangers ahead.
Curtis added a second goal within 15 minutes, capitalizing on a defensive mistake by the English Championship side. Middlesbrough responded quickly, scoring to cut the deficit, but Josh Gentles restored Rangers’ two-goal lead shortly afterward. The visitors were awarded a penalty at the half-hour mark and converted it, bringing the score to 3-2. Just before halftime, Middlesbrough equalized, moments after Hagi narrowly missed with a free-kick.
Hagi, who faces an uncertain future at Rangers, played 45 minutes before being substituted as part of a planned change. Adam Devine, Bailey Rice, Alex Lowry, and new signing Clinton Nsiala were also involved in the high-scoring game. Hagi’s early contribution didn’t go unnoticed by fans, who questioned his B team involvement on social media.
In the second half, both teams had opportunities to win, but it was Rangers who secured the victory. After being awarded a penalty, Lowry calmly converted from the spot, sealing a 4-3 win for David McCallum’s side in a thrilling match.