Rangers’ Under-16s have done well to navigate the challenges of the Alkass International Cup in Qatar, securing their place in the semi-finals after a tough draw with Mohamed VI Academy. However, their biggest test yet looms large on the horizon—a showdown with Paris Saint-Germain, one of the most prestigious youth academies in Europe. If Rangers hope to progress to the final, they will need to deliver their best performance of the tournament so far, as PSG’s youth teams are known for their technical ability, tactical discipline, and attacking firepower.
Despite making it through, Rangers’ performance in their last game left much to be desired. The opening 45 minutes against Mohamed VI Academy were particularly poor, with the young Gers struggling to impose themselves and looking vulnerable defensively. By halftime, they were fortunate to be just 1-0 down, as their opponents could have easily been awarded two penalties and had more chances to extend their lead. The lackluster display was unexpected, especially considering Mohamed VI Academy had lost their first two games. It seemed as though some of the Rangers players had underestimated their opponents, believing the game would be an easy path to the next round.
However, the halftime team talk from the coaching staff provided the necessary wake-up call. Rangers came out with much more urgency in the second half, and one player, in particular, stepped up when it mattered most—Kyle Glasgow. The diminutive playmaker has been the star of Rangers’ tournament so far, and once again, he delivered when his team needed him most. His goal was a moment of real quality, as he picked up the ball, spotted an opportunity, and unleashed a stunning 25-yard strike that left the goalkeeper with no chance. It was a goal that not only secured Rangers’ passage to the semi-finals but also highlighted Glasgow’s technical ability and composure under pressure.
After the game, Glasgow spoke about what went wrong in the first half and how the team was able to turn things around after the break. He admitted that some of his teammates may have taken the opposition too lightly, failing to recognize the quality that Mohamed VI Academy possessed. However, he also credited the coaching staff for giving the squad a “kick in the butt” at halftime, which helped them refocus and ultimately do enough to secure the crucial draw. His comments show that he has a good understanding of the game and the mentality required to succeed at a high level.
Looking ahead to the semi-final clash with PSG, Rangers know that they cannot afford to start slowly again. The French giants boast an academy that consistently produces some of the best young talents in world football, with a history of developing players who go on to star for their senior team and beyond. PSG’s youth teams are renowned for their technical proficiency, tactical intelligence, and attacking flair, meaning Rangers will need to be at their absolute best to compete. If they allow PSG the kind of dominance that Mohamed VI Academy enjoyed in the first half of the previous game, they may find themselves with an insurmountable mountain to climb.
That said, Rangers have shown resilience in this tournament, and they will need to channel that fighting spirit once again. Glasgow has proven himself to be a difference-maker, but he cannot do it alone. The entire team will need to step up, both individually and collectively, if they are to stand a chance of upsetting PSG and reaching the final. They will have to defend with discipline, press with intensity, and be clinical in attack—every moment will count.
This semi-final is more than just a game; it is a major learning experience for these young players. Facing a club of PSG’s stature will provide an invaluable test of their ability to compete at an elite level. Win or lose, this match will serve as a measuring stick for Rangers’ academy, offering insights into where they stand compared to some of the best young talents in Europe.
If they can rise to the occasion, Rangers have the opportunity to make a real statement on the international stage. It won’t be easy, but football is full of surprises, and tournaments like this are where future stars make their mark. One thing is for sure—if Kyle Glasgow and his teammates can produce their best football, they have every chance of making this a game to remember.