Rangers Lose 2-1 to Sturm Graz

Rangers were beaten 2-1 by Sturm Graz in Austria in a Europa League match after two first-half defensive lapses — a throw‑in led to Tomi Horvat’s opener and a second goal arose from a set‑piece/through‑ball that exposed Rangers’ high line. Boss Russell Martin blamed concentration and mentality, and the defeat extended the club’s away run without a clean sheet. Rangers rallied after the break with a brilliant Djeidi Gassama strike and had late chances from Youssef Chermiti and John Souttar, but Oliver Christensen’s saves preserved the Austrian champions’ lead. The loss leaves Rangers pointless in the group and increases pressure on Martin amid a poor run of form. Sturm Graz, managed by Jurgen Samuel and with creative threat Otar Kiteishvili, remain dangerous despite squad changes and took advantage of decisive moments to win.