BILBAO — Rangers’ Europa League campaign took a dramatic turn on Thursday night as they battled to a tense 0-0 draw against Spanish side Athletic Club. But what should have been a celebrated clean sheet has now become a firestorm of controversy, as goalkeeper Liam Kelly finds himself at the centre of sensational accusations of “cheating” during a pivotal penalty incident.
The match, held at the atmospheric San Mamés Stadium, was a tightly contested affair, with both sides struggling to find the back of the net in a game that saw plenty of midfield grit but lacked clinical finishing. Yet it wasn’t the footballing deadlock that dominated the post-match headlines—it was an explosive moment involving a saved penalty from Athletic’s Alex Berenguer and the alleged antics of Kelly in the lead-up.
The Incident: Penalty Drama and Accusations
In the 76th minute, with the home side mounting pressure and the crowd in full voice, Athletic Club were awarded a penalty after a clumsy challenge by Rangers’ Borna Barišić inside the box. Up stepped Berenguer, a reliable spot-kick taker for the Basque outfit. But Liam Kelly, calm and composed, guessed the right way and made a stunning save to preserve his clean sheet.
However, shortly after the final whistle, unseen footage surfaced that appears to show Kelly engaging in what critics have called “manipulative” behavior during the run-up. In the clip, Kelly can be seen subtly delaying the kick—stepping forward off his line early and possibly distracting Berenguer with exaggerated movements and vocal instructions. Though not flagged by the referee or VAR in real-time, the video quickly went viral, prompting heated debate online and among pundits.
Outrage from Bilbao
Athletic supporters and Spanish media were quick to pounce on the footage. Marca ran the headline “Kelly’s Gamesmanship Overshadows Heroics”, while former Athletic players took to social media to demand a UEFA review of the incident.
Speaking after the match, Athletic head coach Ernesto Valverde did not hold back:
“It’s unacceptable. We trust the officials to uphold the integrity of the game. What we’ve seen today brings that into question.”
Club officials have reportedly contacted UEFA for clarification on whether Kelly’s actions breached any regulations, though a formal complaint has yet to be confirmed.
Rangers’ Response
Rangers, meanwhile, have stood firmly by their man. Interim boss Steven Davis praised Kelly’s performance and dismissed the claims as “sour grapes” from a frustrated opposition.
“Liam’s save was world-class. Keepers are always looking for an edge, just like strikers are. He did his job—nothing more, nothing less.”
Teammates echoed the sentiment, calling the accusations a distraction from what was an impressive defensive performance away from home.
Tactical Breakdown
Despite the off-pitch drama, the match itself was a tactical chess match. Rangers set up defensively, allowing Athletic to dominate possession but limiting them to few clear-cut chances. Connor Goldson and John Souttar were immense at the back, with Ryan Jack providing crucial cover in midfield.
Athletic, for all their attacking prowess, were wasteful in the final third. Nico Williams showed flashes of brilliance on the wing, but the final product eluded the home side all night.
Rangers had few forays forward, though they nearly stole it late on through substitute Sam Lammers, whose curling effort forced a sharp save from Unai Simón.
What’s Next?
With the draw, Rangers remain in strong contention in their Europa League group, and a point away in Bilbao is no small feat. But the controversy surrounding Kelly could have lasting implications, both reputationally and potentially disciplinarily, depending on UEFA’s response.
The Ibrox faithful will undoubtedly rally behind their goalkeeper, who, despite the headlines, proved to be the difference on the night.
As the group stage reaches its climax, one thing is certain—this is a night that won’t soon be forgotten, both for the save and the storm it’s kicked up.
