'I always want to take a penalty' - Dessers reacts to being subbed before Unity Cup shootout

Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers has revealed his desire to take a penalty in Nigeria’s shootout win over Jamaica during the Unity Cup tournament on Saturday.

Dessers, who led the attack from the start, was substituted with 15 minutes left on the clock, making way for Getafe midfielder Christantus Uche, who made his debut for the national team.

His early exit meant he was unavailable during the penalty shootout, which saw Nigeria triumph 5-4 after a 2-2 draw in regulation time.

Speaking in his post-match interview monitored by allnigeriasoccer.com, the Rangers forward admitted he was eager to take part in the shootout. 

"I always want to take one (the penalty). As a striker especially you want to take responsibility but I am glad we won it," he said.

Despite not taking a spot-kick, the 30-year-old expressed full confidence in the teammates who stepped up. 

"Yeah, I was confident in my teammates. They were all confident guys so I know they will go with a good feeling."

The Rangers striker expressed excitement at winning the trophy, highlighting the high level of competition faced against both Ghana and Jamaica.

"Actually, it feels quite good. If this was a friendly tournament, it would feel different but the intensity was there against Ghana and actually was there today against Jamaica and this makes it feel good."

Dessers also praised the fans for their passionate support throughout the tournament. 

"On Wednesday and today, the atmosphere has been very nice in the stadium. So we are happy to give our fans something back. They supported us unbelievably this week.

"I think it is always nice to be around the national team. For me, it's been a beautiful week, I enjoyed everything, being around the team, the atmosphere in the stadium was overall very nice.”

The in-form striker, who has been in scintillating form for Rangers this season, will hope to build on his performances and secure a spot in Nigeria’s squad for upcoming competitive fixtures.

Adeyemi Adewale

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