Francesco Farioli’s Porto booked their place in the last 16 of the UEFA Europa League with a comfortable 3-1 victory over Rangers at the Estádio do Dragão, extending their unbeaten run to 12 matches in all competitions.

Rangers, already eliminated before kick-off, had little to play for beyond pride, while Porto knew a win was essential to keep their hopes of a top-eight finish alive.

Despite their situation, it was the visitors who struck first inside six minutes. James Tavernier led the press superbly, winning possession high up the pitch before feeding Findlay Curtis, whose measured cross was met by Djeidi Gassama’s well-placed header.

The early setback sparked a strong response from Porto, who soon took control and turned the match around with two goals in quick succession.

Rodrigo Mora levelled the score on 27 minutes after reacting quickest to a loose ball inside the penalty area and firing home from close range.

Momentum stayed with the hosts, and they went ahead nine minutes later following defensive confusion in the Rangers back line. Tavernier collided with goalkeeper Jack Butland while attempting to clear a cross, allowing Francisco Moura to tap into an unguarded net.

Porto continued to apply pressure and extended their advantage before half-time. William Gomes’s corner caused problems in the box, and Emmanuel Fernández inadvertently headed into his own goal, leaving the visitors reeling at the interval.

Rangers manager Danny Röhl introduced several changes before the hour mark, seemingly with one eye on their upcoming league clash against Hibernian as they continue their domestic title push.

Nicolas Raskin nearly reduced the deficit shortly after, unleashing a powerful long-range effort that forced Diogo Costa into a fine low save.

However, Porto remained in full control for the remainder of the contest, managing the closing stages with composure to secure a crucial victory and sixth-place finish in the standings, guaranteeing automatic qualification for the knockout phase.

Rangers, meanwhile, bow out of the Europa League at the league phase stage for the first time since the 2018/19 season.