Cup Winners Cup Final 1972

The year 1972 holds a special place in the annals of Glasgow Rangers‘ storied history. It was the year when the club etched its name into European football folklore by winning the European Cup Winners’ Cup. This triumph was not just a testament to the skill and determination of the team but also a defining moment for Scottish football. Let’s delve into the detailed journey of Rangers’ unforgettable campaign.

The Prelude: Setting the Stage

Rangers’ journey to European glory began with the disappointment of previous near-misses. The club had been European Cup Winners’ Cup runners-up in 1961 and 1967, losing to Fiorentina and Bayern Munich, respectively. These experiences, however, fortified the squad with resilience and hunger for success on the continental stage.

Managed by Willie Waddell, a former Rangers player and a revered figure in Scottish football, the team entered the 1971-72 Cup Winners’ Cup with a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents. The squad boasted players like John Greig, Sandy Jardine, and Willie Johnston, who would become central figures in their European adventure.

The Road to the Final

First Round: Rennes Rangers’ campaign kicked off against French side Rennes. The first leg in France ended in a 1-1 draw, with Willie Johnston scoring for the visitors. Back at Ibrox, Rangers secured a 1-0 victory thanks to a goal from Alexander MacDonald, progressing 2-1 on aggregate.

Second Round: Sporting CP The second round saw Rangers face Sporting CP from Portugal. The first leg at Ibrox was a thrilling encounter, ending 3-2 in Rangers’ favour. The return leg in Lisbon was a dramatic affair, finishing 4-3 to Sporting. With the aggregate score tied at 6-6, the match was decided by the away goals rule, and Rangers advanced, thanks to their three away goals. The Gers goals over both legs we’re scored by Colin Stein (4) and William Henderson (2).

Quarter-Final: Torino In the quarter-finals, Rangers were drawn against the formidable Italian side Torino. The first leg in Italy ended in a 1-1 draw, with William Johnston scoring for Rangers. The second leg at Ibrox was another tense affair, but a goal from Alex MacDonald ensured a 1-0 win, sending Rangers through with a 2-1 aggregate victory.

Semi-Final: Bayern Munich The semi-final pitted Rangers against Bayern Munich, a powerhouse in European football. The first leg at Grünwalder Stadion was a close match which saw Rangers earn a valuable away goal in a 1-1 draw, courtesy of an own goal. A 80k crowd roared on Rangers in the second leg at Ibrox and the Glasgow side made a quick start to the game taking a 2-0 lead within the first 22 minutes thanks to goals for Sandy Jardine and Derek Parlane to help the Gers reach the final with a aggregate score of 3-1.

The Final: Triumph in Barcelona

The stage was set for the final on May 24, 1972, at the Nou Camp in Barcelona. Rangers faced Dynamo Moscow, a team known for its tactical prowess and disciplined play. The match turned out to be a gripping spectacle.

Rangers took an early lead through Colin Stein in the 23rd minute. The Scottish side doubled their advantage just before halftime, with Willie Johnston scoring in the 40th minute. The second half saw Johnston score again in the 49th minute, making it 3-0 and putting Rangers in a commanding position.

However, Dynamo Moscow mounted a spirited comeback. Two goals from the Soviet side brought the score to 3-2, setting up a tense finale. Rangers, showing immense character and defensive resilience, managed to hold on to their slender lead despite intense pressure and a pitch invasion by fans that temporarily halted the game.

When the final whistle blew, Rangers emerged victorious, securing a 3-2 win and lifting the European Cup Winners’ Cup. It was a moment of immense pride and jubilation for the club, the players, and the supporters. John Greig, the team captain, hoisted the trophy, cementing his status as a Rangers legend.

The Aftermath and Legacy

The 1972 European Cup Winners’ Cup victory remains one of Glasgow Rangers’ most significant achievements. It not only underscored the club’s capacity to compete and succeed at the highest level but also boosted the morale and reputation of Scottish football in Europe.

The triumph was celebrated with great fervour in Glasgow, with thousands of fans lining the streets to welcome their heroes back home. The players from the 1972 squad, including John Greig, Willie Johnston, Sandy Jardine, and others, have since become immortalized in the club’s history, remembered for their remarkable contribution to this historic campaign.

The 1972 European Cup Winners’ Cup campaign is a testament to Glasgow Rangers’ enduring spirit and excellence. It is a story of determination, skill, and the unwavering support of the fans. Even decades later, this victory continues to inspire and resonate with Rangers supporters, serving as a reminder of the club’s proud heritage and illustrious past.