Porto badly need to reach the top 8, but there is a problem: in the 21st century they have yet to beat Rangers in four meetings.
Porto
Porto are the main contenders for that spot: they have eight points, the same as Real Betis Balompié, who are currently in the top 8. In theory, they can even reach third place, but it is hard to expect any of the six clubs above them to drop points. The team themselves are unlikely to drop many: in their three matches at this stage so far they have always won, even if only by the smallest of margins.
Rangers
Rangers, on the other hand, had practically lost their chances of reaching even the play-in round before matchday seven: at that point they were already six points behind and had a -8 goal difference. This was the result of an autumn crisis that forced the board to dismiss Russell Martin. Under Danny Röhl, who averages 2.05 points per game, the team have improved both in the Scottish Premiership, where they have climbed to second place, and in the UEFA Europa League, where they finally earned their first win against Ludogorets Razgrad (1:0). That victory is important at least for their supporters.
Porto vs Rangers Prediction
Porto need to approach this match fully focused, because Rangers have not conceded in five consecutive matches in all competitions and have won eight in a row. Their previous meeting in Portugal ended in a 1:1 draw. That also stops us from believing in an easy win for the home side. It seems reasonable to back the visitors with a +1.5 handicap.
