Rangers line-up vs Benfica predicted: Cantwell and Matondo starts

Philippe Clement's men know a victory of any kind will do after a hard-fought 2-2 draw in Lisbon last week.

The Rangers boss will have to make do without Dujon Sterling but Todd Cantwell is back in contention following a recent injury. The question is, will he start or make an impact from the bench?

Our writers select their starting XIs for the clash.

Chris Jack

Philippe Clement surprised many supporters with his selection on Sunday as the same XI that started in Lisbon were given the nod at Easter Road. Had the Ibrox injury curse not struck again, there is every chance he would have gone for the hat-trick for the return leg against Benfica.

The return of Todd Cantwell to the squad is a real boost at a crucial moment for Rangers. Clement admitted he is not fit to get through 90 minutes, though, and it seems more likely that he will start on the bench. He is a welcome option to have should Rangers need a bit of inspiration.

Dujon Sterling will not make it and Ross McCausland is still a major doubt. That leaves Clement short of an option wide right and Rabbi Matondo is the obvious choice to come in. He returned from his own absence against Hibernian and will be required to go again as Rangers bid for a last-eight spot.

The rest of the side picks itself. It will need a big effort from Clement’s side but the Belgian has full belief in his depleted ranks. A win here would be quite the achievement and the statement from Rangers.

Rangers: Butland, Tavernier, Goldson, Souttar, Ridvan, Lundstram, Diomande, Lawrence, Matondo, Silva, Dessers.

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Derek Clark

The manager has a decision to make with regards the returning Todd Cantwell. It's a huge boost to have the former Norwich man back in contention but starting him after a recent spell out through injury may not be the best move.

The likelihood is he impacts the game from the bench at some point in the second half. The other decision Philippe Clement has to ponder is who replaces the injured Dujon Sterling. It's an almighty blow to lose last week's goalscorer given he was terrific and his endeavour and physicality would've caused Benfica problems.

Fresh from being recalled to the Wales squad, Rabbi Matondo may just get the nod on the right-hand side of the forward line. The Welshman's pace will be useful against a Benfica backline that looks getable. That aside, don't expect too many other alterations from the team that has started in the previous two games.

Rangers: Butland, Tavernier, Goldson, Souttar, Ridvan, Lundstram, Diomande, Lawrence, Matondo, Silva, Dessers.