Super Eagles duo, Joe Aribo and Calvin Bassey, failed to inspire Rangers to a first European title in 50 years as they crashed 5-4 on penalties to German side, Eintracht Frankfurt on Wednesday night.
Joe Aribo’s 57th-minute goal was not enough to help Rangers to a dream continental prize.
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After a goalless first half, both sides resumed proceedings with not too many chances created.
Rafael Borre would then equalize from close range in the 69th minute after tapping in from between two Rangers defenders. He was assisted by Filip Kostić.
With both sides unable to take advantage in 90 minutes, the game went into extra time.
Borre came very close to putting Frankfurt in front in the first half of extra time but was cleanly handled by Bassey who recovered in time to stop the strike.
A decisive moment emerged in the 119th minute with Rangers awarded a free-kick from 20 yards to the right of the goal.
James Tavernier’s effort was however saved by Kevin Trapp at his near post.
It came down to penalties after 120 minutes with Captain Tavernier stepping up to lead by example – he scored slotting down the middle.
It looked like fans were in for a long night, until Trapp’s telling save from Aaron Ramsey’s spot-kick.
Kostic stepped up for Frankfurt next and tucked in sweetly to give Frankfurt the advantage at 4-3.
Next was Kemar Roofe who then scored to keep Rangers alive, but their fate was no more in their hands.
Scorer Borré’s last kick into the top corner sealed it for the German side.
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The Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán in Seville, Spain, erupted as the Frankfurt supporters chanted choruses while Rangers fans were left in tears.
The trophy is Frankfurt’s first in 42 years.
