Scottish Cup 5th Round Preview: Rangers vs Queen’s Park
The Scottish Cup returns to Ibrox tomorrow as Rangers host Queen’s Park in the 5th Round, with kick-off set for 3:30pm. After a commanding 4-0 win over Ross County last weekend, Philippe Clement’s men will look to keep that momentum going in what remains their most promising route to silverware this season.
A Balancing Act for Clement
While the temptation to rotate might be strong, given Rangers’ lighter schedule and the opportunity to rest key players, Clement knows that the stakes are high. The Scottish Cup is not just another fixture—it’s potentially the club’s best chance at lifting a trophy this year. Making too many changes could be a gamble the manager isn’t willing to take. Expect a strong starting XI to take the field, with substitutions likely coming later to give younger players valuable minutes.
Opportunities for Youth and Returning Players
Fans will be eager to see some of the club’s emerging talents like Rafael Fernandes, Bailey Rice, and Finlay Curtis getting minutes in this fixture. With Rangers only playing one game a week, thanks to finishing in the top eight of the Europa League and skipping the upcoming playoff rounds, there’s room to integrate these younger players without risking fatigue for the senior squad.
Hamza Igamane’s recent frustration on the left wing hasn’t gone unnoticed either. A switch to a central role could unlock his potential, but that hinges on whether Clement decides to rest Cyriel Dessers. If Dessers sits this one out, Nedim Bajrami—who has struggled to find consistency—might get another shot on the left, though fans will be hoping for a more impactful performance.
Predicted Starting XI
GK: Jack Butland
RB: James Tavernier
CB: John Souttar
CB: Clinton Nsiala
LB: Jefte
CM: Mohamed Diomande
CM: Nicolas Raskin
AM: Ianis Hagi
RW: Vaclav Cerny
LW: Hamza Igamane
CF: Cyriel Dessers
Final Thoughts
With the schedule easing up and the Scottish Cup representing a key opportunity for silverware, Clement will likely prioritise getting the job done early with his strongest XI before rotating in the younger talents. Whether it’s giving Igamane a central role or seeing Fernandes, Rice, and Curtis get minutes, fans will have plenty to watch for as Rangers aim to march into the next round.
Where to Watch
If you can’t make it to Ibrox, the game will be available to watch on RangersTV for international subscribers or those with a VPN, and highlights will be available post-match for all fans.
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