Gio van Bronckhorst savoured the joy of breaking his European away day cherry - but warned Rangers the job is only half done after sensationally dumping Dortmund in Germany.
The Ibrox side put on an astonishing display at the Westfalenstadion as James Tavernier, Alfredo Morelos and John Lundstram shot down the Bundesliga big guns.
Dan-Axel Zagadou’s own goal rounded off an incredible night for Scottish champions but there is still work to be done at Ibrox next week after Jude Bellingham and Raphael Guerreiro handed Marco Rose’s men a lifeline.
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 Van Bronckhorst’s first ever European victory on the road and he could not have been prouder of his players.
The delighted Dutchman said: “We talked on the way into to the media room that it is very difficult to get an away win in Europe. It is not easy.
"As a manager, I think it is the first time I have won away in Europe and I think 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 this game.”
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: “I think 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 and we have to make sure we make our fans proud of the performances we put in and I think 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 as well.”
Van Bronckhorst handed Ryan Jack just his second start since returning from his year-long 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 I think together with John we see the impact they have on the team.
“Offensively but also defensively. Those two had a really great performance.
“Your midfield is always probably the most important part of your squad because it will help defence and help the offence.
“Today I think our midfield were excellent and John and Ryan really put in a good performance.”
