Cyriel Dessers’ Double Lifts Rangers to Victory and Reaches Milestone
Nigerian striker Cyriel Dessers played a pivotal role in Rangers’ 3-1 comeback victory against Dundee United, scoring a brace to secure the three points and reach a personal milestone of 50 goals for the club. Dessers’ first goal came just five minutes after Dundee United had taken the lead, leveling the score and injecting momentum back into the Rangers’ side. His second goal, a confidently dispatched penalty in the 73rd minute, proved to be the decisive moment in the match, putting Rangers ahead and paving the way for Nico Raskin’s clinching goal two minutes later.
Interim manager Barry Ferguson praised Dessers’ performance, highlighting the striker’s tireless work ethic and impressive goal-scoring record this season. Ferguson acknowledged the criticism Dessers has faced at times but emphasized the Nigerian’s consistent 100% effort and phenomenal goal return. He expressed his delight at Dessers reaching the 50-goal milestone and anticipated the striker’s eagerness to add to his tally in the final game of the season.
The decision to allow Dessers to take the penalty, usually the domain of club captain James Tavernier, was a notable moment in the match. Ferguson admitted his surprise at Tavernier’s gesture, acknowledging the captain’s understanding of the significance of the milestone for Dessers. While momentarily apprehensive about the potential consequences of a missed penalty, Ferguson’s relief was evident as Dessers calmly converted the spot-kick.
Dessers’ impressive goal-scoring record extends beyond his recent brace. Since joining Rangers in the summer of 2023 from Cremonese for a fee of around €5 million, he has amassed a total of 28 goals and 7 assists in 54 appearances across all competitions. His overall tally for the club stands at an impressive 50 goals and 16 assists in 108 appearances, showcasing his consistent contribution to the team’s attacking prowess.
As Rangers’ season draws to a close with the final round of Scottish Premiership fixtures, Dessers will be aiming to finish on a high, adding to his impressive goal tally and leaving a lasting mark on the campaign. Having established himself as a regular contributor, the Nigerian striker is looking forward to a new season, where his ambitions would be to win at least a major title with the Ibrox club. He acknowledged the strength and quality of their arch rivals, Celtic and believes only hardwork and renewed resolve could secure a major silverware for his club next season.
Dessers’ journey to Rangers has been marked by resilience and determination. After a challenging spell at Cremonese, where he struggled to find consistent form, the move to Rangers presented an opportunity for a fresh start. He quickly adapted to the demands of Scottish football, showcasing his versatility as a striker capable of leading the line, dropping deep to link up play, and finding the back of the net with regularity. His contributions have been crucial to Rangers’ success, and aged 30, he believes he is at his peak and ready to contribute immensely for the club next season.
