GIO’S JOY BUT IT’S NOT OVER
Raphael Guerreiro handed Marco Rose’s men a lifeline last night.
However, there could be further good news for Gers with Rose admitting superstar striker Erling Haaland may have to sit out the second leg too after being forced to watch from the stands as Rangers ran riot.
The win was former Feyenoord gaffer Van Bronckhorst’s first ever European victory on the road and he could not have been prouder.
The delighted Dutchman said: “We talked on the way into the media room that it is very difficult to get an away win in Europe.
“As a manager, it is the first time I have won away in Europe and that shows you how difficult it is.
“It is a great night but it is only a great night.
“We are not through to the next round, which we want. We have to get a good performance next week as well.
“To bring this win back to Glasgow, we worked hard for it and also deserved to win.”
Dortmund were the bookies’ favourites to go all the way but their hopes of reaching the Europa League’s last 16 are now hanging by a thread.
And van Bronckhorst hailed the belief in his side after seeing them stun one of the biggest teams in Europe.
He said: “The belief starts with everyone.
“As a manager I have an important role but in a way we are all leaders.
“So the belief is there from myself, from the staff and also from the players.
“We are as one and we represent this beautiful club. We have to make sure we make fans proud of the performances we put in and today we have done it.
“We have to enjoy the moment but prepare as well for a difficult away day at Dundee United on Sunday.”
Van Bronckhorst handed Ryan Jack just
his second start since returning from his yearlong lay-off and was rewarded with a commanding display beside Lundstram, who also helped fend off the German giants before rasping home with a stunning strike just after half-time.
“I’m really happy to have Ryan back in the team,” added the Ibrox gaffer.
“He was struggling with injuries as we all know but together with John we see the impact they have on the team.
“Offensively but also defensively. Those two had a really great performance.
“Midfield is probably the most important part of your squad because it will help the defence and the offence.
“Our midfield were excellent and John and Ryan really put in a good performance.”
With the away-goal rule a thing of the past, Dortmund only need to score twice to level the tie.
But Rose fears his side will have to do it again without their Norwegian predator.
Asked if Haaland would be available for the trip to Glasgow, he said: “I can’t say that yet.
“Yesterday he participated in training but just a small part.
“There’s still a few days to go but he hasn’t played for quite a while.
“It’s a difficult story so I have no idea.
“Of course this situation is difficult. We lost by two goals. There’s no away goals anymore so that might be a little help.
“But to score two goals at Ibrox with 50000 fans there is quite a task.
“It will be difficult but nonetheless we’ll prepare.”