Cyriel Dessers, the prolific Rangers striker, has reaffirmed his burgeoning significance to the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles, by scoring a pivotal goal against Ghana in the semi-final of the 2025 Unity Cup held in London. This goal not only extended his impressive scoring streak but also reignited his aspiration to represent Nigeria in a major international tournament. Fresh off securing the 2024-25 Scottish Premiership Golden Boot with 18 league goals, Dessers showcased his clinical finishing ability by opening the scoring in the high-stakes “Jollof Derby” against Ghana. This marked his second goal against the Black Stars, having previously found the net against them in a friendly match in Morocco in March 2024.
Dessers’ return to the Super Eagles fold was met with unwavering enthusiasm. He expressed his profound honor at being called up to represent Nigeria, emphasizing the deep-seated connection he feels with the country. The call-up, he stated, required no deliberation; it was an instinctive acceptance of a cherished opportunity. This eagerness to don the green and white jersey reflects Dessers’ unwavering commitment to the national team. While he has experienced moments of national team involvement in the past, he remains determined to solidify his place and leave an indelible mark on the international stage.
The 30-year-old striker harbors a burning ambition to participate and excel in major international tournaments, viewing it as a crowning achievement in his career. Representing Nigeria at a major competition and potentially contributing to a triumphant campaign would be a dream fulfilled, adding a layer of accomplishment to his already impressive footballing journey. His aspirations are firmly anchored in his exceptional current form. With a remarkable tally of 29 goals across all competitions this season, including a streak of five consecutive matches finding the back of the net for Rangers, Dessers arrived at the Super Eagles camp in peak condition, brimming with confidence.
His early goal against Ghana, a composed finish following a swift cross from Sodiq Ismaila, exemplified the sharp finishing prowess that propelled him to the top of the scoring charts in Scotland, surpassing Celtic’s Daizen Maeda and Dundee’s Simon Murray. The match, held in London before a substantial and enthusiastic Nigerian diaspora, added a special resonance for the Belgian-born forward. He acknowledged the electrifying atmosphere generated by the fervent support of the Nigerian community in London, emphasizing its profound impact on the players. The clash against Ghana, a traditional rival, held particular significance, further amplified by the location and the fervent backing of the Nigerian fans.
Despite the Unity Cup being officially categorized as a friendly tournament, Dessers emphasized the Super Eagles’ unwavering commitment to victory. He underscored that the team approached the match with utmost seriousness, driven by a desire to triumph and bring pride to their supporters. The historical rivalry with Ghana added another layer of intensity to the encounter, transforming the friendly label into a fiercely contested battle for bragging rights and national pride. This approach reflected the team’s competitive spirit and their understanding of the symbolic importance of the match.
Dessers’ goal, his overall performance, and his expressed dedication to the national team highlight his growing importance to the Super Eagles. His ambition to play at a major tournament and his current prolific form suggest a bright future for both him and the Nigerian national side. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, ambition, and the enduring allure of representing one’s nation on the grandest stage of international football. It also underscores the unifying power of sport, particularly evident in the enthusiastic support of the Nigerian community in London, which served as a powerful reminder of the emotional connection between players and fans.
