"I feel great" – In-form Cyriel Dessers responds to snub

Posted : 12 March 2025

Super Eagles forward Cyriel Dessers has expressed confidence and a positive mindset ahead of Rangers' upcoming UEFA Europa League match against Fenerbahce at Ibrox Stadium. Despite his impressive form, where he has contributed ten goals and three assists in his last 13 games for Rangers, Dessers was notably excluded from the Super Eagles squad for Nigeria’s World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

Instead of Dessers, coach Eric Chelle opted for players such as Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, Sadiq Umar, and Tolu Arokodare. This decision may have been disappointing for Dessers, especially considering that he is currently Nigeria’s second-highest goalscorer in Europe for the season. Despite this setback, the 30-year-old striker remains in high spirits and focused on his club's European competition.

"I always try to stay grounded, not to let setbacks affect me," Dessers told Sky Sports Scotland. “At this stage, I feel good, I feel confident. I’ve scored a few goals recently, but I always want more. Scoring 22 goals at this point in the season feels great, but I’m pushing for more and hope I can contribute even more to the team’s success.”

As Rangers head into the second leg of their Europa League round of 16 clash against Fenerbahce, they carry a 3-1 lead from the first leg. Dessers was instrumental in that match, providing both a goal and an assist, and he will be looking to replicate that performance in the return fixture.

Meanwhile, Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle’s squad selection for the World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe has raised some questions. Although the squad appears balanced, some of the call-ups have sparked debate, especially with the exclusion of players like Dessers.

If Nigeria fails to secure victories against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, fans may question Chelle’s selections, particularly in regard to his choices for certain positions. To earn the fans' trust, Chelle needs to deliver strong performances in the first two matches of the qualifiers.

As for Dessers, he remains determined to continue his growth and contributions at the club level. With his current form and ongoing development, Dessers is confident that his consistent performances will eventually earn him a spot back in the Super Eagles squad.

"I feel great" – In-form Cyriel Dessers responds to snub

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