Rangers striker Cyriel Dessers was impressed with the team’s overall performance after they secured qualification to the Round of 16 of the UEFA Europa League.
The Gers defeated Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise 2-1 on Thursday night to finish eighth on the 36-team standings, as they secured automatic qualification for the Round of 16, while ensuring they avoided the playoffs for teams that finished 9th to 24th.
Nicolas Raskin gave the Scottish side a first-half lead, before Dessers provided the second for Vaclav Cerny after brilliant hold-up play by the Nigerian, who described the qualification as ‘special’.
“We are indeed eighth. I just heard it on the pitch. That is special, because we skip a round,” he said after the match.
“This is an incredible club and the European evenings are special. It’s really great.
The Nigerian international who has been a subject of transfer speculation in recent weeks after losing out on a starting spot to Moroccan Hamza Igamane, was instrumental in the victory with another impressive outing.
I had received some messages during the day from family and friends that they were going to watch the match. Then of course you always want to do your best”, Dessers added.
Rangers who are in action this weekend in the Scottish Premier League against Ross County, will find out who their next round opponents are on the 21st of February, after the playoffs are concluded.
Shina Oludare is a distinguished sports journalist and managing editor, renowned for his comprehensive coverage of African football. His dedication to elevating African sports on the global stage has earned him widespread respect, along with numerous accolades for his contributions. A graduate of the LaLiga Business School in Madrid, Oludare’s passion for sports and his influential work in African football journalism have established him as a leading figure in the industry.
