Rangers secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Jablonec in the first leg of their UEFA Conference League play-off clash at Ibrox, with Ryan Naderi providing the decisive strike before the hosts held on with ten men.

The Scottish side dominated the opportunities during the first half but were repeatedly frustrated. Vanja Dragojevic dragged an early effort wide before Djeidi Gassama missed the target. James Penrice forced Jablonec goalkeeper Jan Hanus into action, and Dragojevic later saw his low strike rattle the base of the post after an inventive hold-up play from Naderi.

Naderi Breaks the Deadlock

Rangers found the breakthrough just five minutes into the second half. Dan Neil swung in an accurate delivery into the penalty area, which Daisuke Yokota headed across the face of goal for Naderi to steer home from close range.

Gassama had a glorious opportunity to double the advantage moments later when he found himself unmarked at the back post courtesy of a pinpoint Naderi cross, but the winger lifted his volley over the crossbar from six yards out.

Late Red Card Drama

The tie took a tense turn with 16 minutes remaining. Substitute Cameron Devlin, who had only been on the pitch for five minutes, was shown a straight red card following a VAR review for a high tackle on Jiri Slama.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, Rangers managed the closing stages effectively, limiting Jablonec's chances on Ivor Pandur’s goal and ensuring they take a one-goal cushion into next week’s return leg in Czechia.

The victory marks another positive step in the early stages of the manager's tenure following last weekend's 5-1 League Cup triumph against St Mirren, with Naderi continuing his impressive form by leading the team in duels won, dribbles, and total goal involvements this season.