Johor Darul Ta’zim let a two-goal advantage slip as Scottish giants Rangers FC produced an impressive second-half comeback to secure a 2-2 draw in an entertaining pre-season friendly at Alicante, Spain.
The match served as another valuable test for both clubs ahead of their respective domestic and continental campaigns, with JDT showing their attacking quality while Rangers demonstrated resilience to battle back.
The opening 45 minutes were evenly contested, with both sides creating promising opportunities.
Rangers came closest to breaking the deadlock through Djeidi Gassama, whose effort tested the JDT defence, while the Malaysian champions responded with their best chance of the half after striking the woodwork.
Despite the end-to-end action, neither side was able to find the breakthrough before the interval.
JDT exploded into life immediately after the restart. Malaysian striker Bergson Da Silva scored twice within the opening three minutes of the second half, stunning Rangers and putting Hector Bidoglio’s side firmly in control at 2-0.
The Scottish visitors nearly found an instant response, but Emmanuel Fernandez headed a promising opportunity over the crossbar as Rangers searched for a route back into the contest.
With around 30 minutes remaining, Rangers finally found their breakthrough. Midfielder Tochi Chukwuani powered home from inside the penalty area after an excellent delivery from Ross McCrorie, cutting the deficit to 2-1 and shifting the momentum.
The equaliser soon followed. Chukwuani completed his impressive brace with a superb long-range strike from outside the box, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance and ensuring Rangers completed a deserved comeback.
The entertaining 2-2 draw provides both clubs with important preparation as they continue building fitness and tactical sharpness ahead of the new season.
Credit Photo : JST
