Leon Balogun found himself amid controversy involving Cyriel Dessers ahead of Rangers’ Champions League match against Dynamo Kiev.
This wasn’t due to the Nigerian defender doubting his fellow countryman at Ibrox. Quite the opposite, in fact.
The issue arose when a journalist cheekily asked Balogun if Dessers was capable of leading the Rangers’ attack.
Quickly, Rangers manager Philippe Clement interrupted the press conference, saying, “I think that’s a really strange question to be honest.”
Balogun responded, “What do you expect me to say? What do you mean? How confident am I that he’ll start scoring?
“He’s already scored a number of goals for us and the season just began last weekend, so I’m not sure what you’re implying.
“From what I saw last season, he scored a significant number of goals, so yes, I am confident.”
Now, Balogun has had the last laugh on X following Cyriel’s heroics in Poland.
Dessers shines in Champions League
As Rangers prepared for their first leg against Dynamo Kiev, some fans feared the worst.
The club and squad are in a transitional phase, with much work needed before the summer transfer window closes.
Despite this, the Gers delivered a spirited performance, earning a 1-1 draw in large part due to Cyriel Dessers.
Dessers made a remarkable effort to recover and join the attack after a late collision, ultimately scoring from a Vaclav Cerny cross to equalize Andriy Yarmolenko’s goal.
This resulted in celebration both in Poland and among Rangers fans in Scotland.
Moreover, Dessers once again silenced critics, and Balogun enjoyed some post-match satisfaction.
Balogun praises teammate
On social media platform X, Balogun posted a picture of himself with Cyriel Dessers from the match against Dynamo Kiev.
With the caption ‘right on time, CD9,’ Balogun’s post is a clear show of support for the embattled striker and a cheeky nod to the press conference question.
Balogun also performed well in Poland, though he and the defense were occasionally wasteful in possession.
Nevertheless, Rangers held their ground at 1-0 until Dessers scored, earning praise at the final whistle.
Rangers will host Dynamo Kiev at Hampden next Tuesday (13/08), with the winner advancing to the Champions League Playoff.
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