Introduction
The Scottish League Cup quarter-final between Rangers and Hibernian on 20 September 2025 carried more weight than a typical knockout tie. For Rangers, it was a must-win clash amid fan unrest, protests, and mounting pressure on manager Russell Martin. For Hibernian, it was an opportunity to test themselves against one of the giants of Scottish football and book a place in the last four.
In the end, goals from Nico Raskin and Bojan Miovski secured a 2–0 win for Rangers at Ibrox. But the game’s narrative stretched far beyond the scoreline — touching on tactical battles, missed chances, supporter discontent, and the history of this compelling rivalry.
This article offers a comprehensive breakdown: the full match story, player ratings, tactical analysis, historical context, fan reactions, and what this result means for both sides moving forward.
Full Match Report
First Half: Drama, Goals, and Turning Points
The game began with intensity from both sides. Hibernian pressed high, looking to unsettle Rangers’ defensive build-up, and almost found early joy.
• 19’ – Disallowed Goal (Hibernian): Martin Boyle thought he had given Hibs the lead when he turned in a cross, but VAR spotted a handball in the build-up. It was a devastating moment for the visitors, and relief for Rangers.
• 42’ – Goal (Rangers 1–0 Hibernian): The breakthrough came from a set piece. James Tavernier delivered a pinpoint corner, and Nico Raskin rose highest to head home. A crucial goal, especially considering Raskin’s recent absence from the side due to reported disagreements with the manager.
• 45+1’ – Goal (Rangers 2–0 Hibernian): Just before half-time, Bojan Miovski doubled the lead. He found space inside the box, controlling well before finishing clinically. The timing was devastating for Hibs, who went into the break with a mountain to climb.
Second Half: Control and Game Management
Rangers, with a two-goal cushion, shifted into game management mode.
• Tavernier anchored the backline and limited Hibs’ wing play.
• Jack Butland, though not overworked, provided security in goal.
• Hibs continued to push, but without clear cutting-edge — their best attempts came from long-range strikes and corners.
Full-Time: Rangers 2–0 Hibernian. Rangers advanced to the Scottish League Cup semi-finals, while Hibs exited with regrets.
Tactical Breakdown
Rangers’ Approach
• Formation: 4-2-3-1.
• Key Strength: Set-piece execution. Both goals originated from dead-ball situations, showcasing preparation and aerial dominance.
• Game Management: Rangers sat deeper in the second half, conserving energy and controlling transitions.
• Symbolic Return: Raskin’s involvement (goal + energy in midfield) underlined both his importance and the drama of his reinstatement.
Hibernian’s Approach
• Pressing: Aggressive in the opening half-hour, unsettled Rangers temporarily.
• Psychological Blow: The disallowed goal derailed momentum.
• Weakness: Defensive lapses at crucial moments; poor marking for Raskin’s opener and lack of organisation before Miovski’s strike.
Extended Player Ratings
Rangers
• Nico Raskin – 8.5/10: Man of the match. His header broke the deadlock, and he dictated midfield tempo.
• Bojan Miovski – 7.5/10: Took his chance clinically, offering movement and sharp finishing.
• James Tavernier – 7/10: Delivered the decisive corner, calm under pressure, led the side well.
• Jack Butland – 6.5/10: Reliable when needed, steady distribution.
• Connor Goldson – 7/10: Strong defensively, dominant in aerial duels.
• Dujon Sterling – 6.5/10: Worked tirelessly down the flank, balanced defence with overlapping runs.
Hibernian
• Martin Boyle – 6.5/10: Looked lively, but disallowed goal crushed momentum.
• Elie Youan – 6/10: Flashes of pace but lacked precision in the final third.
• Rocky Bushiri – 5.5/10: Struggled against Rangers’ physicality in the box.
• Jojo Wollacott – 6/10: Made decent saves; couldn’t do much about either goal.
• Joe Newell – 6/10: Tried to dictate midfield but overwhelmed by Raskin and Lundstram’s work rate.
Key Stats
• Possession: Rangers 59% – Hibernian 41%
• Shots (on target): Rangers 12 (6) – Hibernian 8 (3)
• Corners: Rangers 7 – Hibernian 4
• Pass Accuracy: Rangers 84% – Hibernian 79%
• Fouls: Rangers 10 – Hibernian 12
These numbers show Rangers’ greater control in possession and their sharper use of set pieces.
Fan Reactions
Rangers Supporters
• Relief at advancing to the semi-finals.
• Applauded Raskin, chanting his name after weeks of uncertainty.
• Still vocal in protests against Russell Martin and the board, reminding everyone that one win doesn’t erase structural concerns.
Hibernian Supporters
• Anger over the disallowed goal.
• Frustration at defensive lapses that cost them at crucial times.
• Hopeful about attacking intent but calling for more composure against top opposition.
Rivalry Context: Rangers vs Hibernian
The Rangers–Hibernian rivalry, though overshadowed by the Old Firm, has its own rich history:
• 2016 Scottish Cup Final: Hibernian beat Rangers 3–2 in dramatic fashion, ending a 114-year wait for the trophy.
• League Cup History: Rangers have historically dominated, but Hibs have pulled off notable upsets.
• Recent Years: Rangers remain the stronger side overall, but Hibs’ pace and counter-attacking often trouble them.
Head-to-head (all competitions, up to 2025):
• Rangers wins: 120+
• Hibernian wins: 60+
• Draws: 70+
Season Implications
For Rangers
• Into the League Cup semi-finals — chance to win silverware and ease pressure on Martin.
• Raskin’s reintegration offers midfield stability.
• Still, fan unrest remains a major issue: protests are unlikely to fade unless consistent results follow.
For Hibernian
• Out of the cup — disappointment, but focus now shifts to the Scottish Premiership.
• Need to tighten defensive structure against stronger teams.
• Promising signs in attack, but must turn chances into goals.
FAQs
- Who scored for Rangers?
Nico Raskin (42’) and Bojan Miovski (45+1’). - Why was Hibs’ goal disallowed?
Martin Boyle’s strike in the 19th minute was ruled out for handball in the build-up. - Who was man of the match?
Nico Raskin, for his goal and midfield dominance. - What competition was this?
The Scottish League Cup quarter-final (Premier Sports Cup). - What’s next for Rangers and Hibs?
Rangers advance to the semi-finals. Hibs return focus to league competition. - What is the Rangers vs Hibernian head-to-head record?
Rangers lead historically with over 120 wins, while Hibs have around 60 victories.
Conclusion
Rangers’ 2–0 victory over Hibernian was about more than advancing to the Scottish League Cup semi-finals. It was a test of resilience under pressure, a symbolic return for Nico Raskin, and a temporary relief for Russell Martin amid growing discontent from supporters.
For Hibs, it was another “what if” night — a disallowed goal and defensive mistakes proving costly. Yet their intent showed they remain capable of competing with Scotland’s elite, even if consistency remains elusive.
As the semi-finals await, Rangers’ journey continues with silverware within sight. But beyond the scoreboard, the echoes of fan protests and the demands for stability remind us that this club’s story remains as turbulent as ever.
Final Score: Rangers 2–0 Hibernian
Scorers: Raskin (42’), Miovski (45+1’)
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