Super Eagles duo Leon Balogun and Cyriel Dessers were on target as Rangers cruised to a 3-0 victory over Aberdeen in a Scottish Premiership clash at Ibrox Stadium on Wednesday night.
The Nigerian internationals, both starting on the bench, delivered decisive contributions in a game that saw Rangers close the gap on league leaders Celtic to 13 points.
Rangers boss Philippe Clement opted to retain the same starting XI from the weekend’s win against St Johnstone. Balogun, back in the squad after missing six league matches due to injury, and Dessers, playing second fiddle to Moroccan striker Hamza Igamane since December, had to wait for their chance.
Igamane continued his fine form by opening the scoring in the 13th minute, slotting home after Mohamed Diomande’s effort was blocked. As the match progressed, Clement turned to his bench.
Balogun was introduced in the 76th minute for Robin Propper, while Dessers replaced Igamane in the 89th minute.
The former Super Eagles centre-back wasted no time making an impact, powering a header into the net in stoppage time to double Rangers' lead. Dessers then sealed the victory with a clinical finish four minutes later, ending his six-game Premiership goal drought in style.
Balogun and Dessers’ all-around impact
Balogun delivered an assured cameo, playing 14 minutes and contributing a goal and an assist. The 35-year-old won all three of his aerial duels, completed 80% of his passes, and created a big chance with one key pass. Defensively, he registered a clearance, an interception, and a tackle, showcasing his versatility and experience.
Dessers, on the pitch for just 10 minutes, made his limited time count. With only two touches, he found the net once and won his sole aerial duel, showing sharp instincts in front of goal.
Amid uncertainty surrounding their futures, Balogun is in the final six months of his contract, while the ostracised Super Eagles striker has been linked with a January exit, the pair's performances could prove pivotal for both their careers and Rangers’ title push.
