Rangers beat Panathinaikos in UCL qualifier with Super Eagles striker Dessers back in action

Super Eagles forward Cyriel Dessers came off the bench in the second half as Rangers claimed a commanding 2-0 victory over Panathinaikos in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League qualifier at Ibrox Stadium.

Dessers, who finished as Rangers’ top scorer in the Scottish Premiership last season, was introduced in the 74th minute, replacing Danilo.

The Nigerian striker is regaining full fitness after a delayed return to pre-season, following his wedding and international duties.

Dessers missed Rangers' pre-season fixtures against Club Brugge and Barnsley due to a minor injury. 

Rangers initially struggled to find rhythm in the absence of their leading marksman, managing their first real attempt on goal in the 38th minute when Danilo’s effort deflected narrowly wide.

The breakthrough came early in the second half as teenage sensation Findlay Curtis put the hosts ahead in the 52nd minute with a deflected strike that found the back of the net.

The victory was sealed in the 78th minute when substitute Djeidi Gassama unleashed a stunning 20-yard strike, giving Rangers a two-goal cushion ahead of the return leg in Greece.

Meanwhile, summer signing Emmanuel Fernandez, another promising young defender, was an unused substitute in the match.

Rangers will be hoping to finish the job in the second leg, while Dessers looks to regain his starting spot and contribute more significantly in the crucial tie.

Adeyemi Adewale

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com