Benfica captain Nicolas Otamendi says he is relishing the "beautiful" opportunity to play at Ibrox as he targets the Europa League quarter-finals.

In-form Rangers haven't lost a home tie in the competition since a 0-2 defeat against Lyon in September 2021 and stand in their way - with the tie level at 2-2 from last week's first leg.

Otamendi, 36, has tasted intimidating atmosphere's throughout his trophy-laden career and the experienced defender believes a trip to Govan will be no different. In fact, he's convinced Benfica will thrive in the sold-out Ibrox cauldron. 

Speaking on the eve of the clash, he said: “We enjoy such atmospheres. It’s beautiful to play in these atmospheres. Football is a sport that provides hostility. It’s good for us and we should play without any fear.

“The teams know each other now (after the first leg) and we want to do our best to qualify for the next round.”

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While manager Roger Schmidt is expecting Thursday's mouthwatering second leg to resemble a cup final. 

“After the draw last week, this is the decisive game and one team is going out of the Europa League,” he admitted.

“I expect a game which is more open than last week. They scored with their first chance and their second chance. We were able to create chances but had to accept the draw.

“Now we start again at zero. I’ve not been here before but I’ve heard a lot about the place. There is big motivation for Rangers but also for us.

“If you go for prizes, these are the decisive weeks of the season. We are still able to do something in three competitions.

“It is almost the end of the season and we have to show that we deserve to go to the quarter-finals. It would be a great achievement.”

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He also reckons the Portuguese giants are prepared for extra-time and penalties if required. 

“We want to win and it doesn’t matter how,” added the German.

“We will be ready for extra-time and ready for penalties. We prepare for every situation.”