RANGERS' girls under-17 side are preparing to leave for Sweden this Sunday ahead of their participation in next week's Gothia Cup competition.

One of the most popular youth tournaments in the world, over 770,000 children from over 127 different counties have participated in it over the years.

Now Rangers are hoping to leave a lasting impression on the famous tournament at this year's event.

More than 1,500 teams will come together at the Ullevi Stadium for the opening ceremony, where it is estimated up to 50,000 spectators will be there to welcome teams from all over the world.

In their first season, Rangers' girls under-17 squad enjoyed several highlights, finishing runners-up in the league and reaching the semi-finals of both the Scottish Cup and League Cup.

They now have an opportunity to go to a major tournament and play against some of the best girls teams from all over the world. It is sure to be a fantastic experience for the players.

Gers will face Scandinavian opposition in their opening three games as they take on Hultsfred FK (Sweden), Torslanda IK (Norway) and Strømmen FK (Sweden).

Team manager Gary Gibson said: "I am delighted to be taking the girls across to Sweden in their first season together to play in what is sure to be a fantastic and well-run tournament.

"It will be a great learning curve for them and I am sure they will reap the benefits of playing against quality opposition from different countries."

Make sure you keep track of how the girls are getting on in the tournament by visiting the event's website, www.gothiacup.se.