Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers has spoken out after Rangers’ 2-1 defeat to Manchester United on Thursday, praising his teammates despite the heartbreaking loss in the UEFA Europa League.
The Gers traveled to Old Trafford for their penultimate group-stage match, with both teams needing a win to keep their hopes of automatic qualification to the round of 16 alive.
Manchester United were the favorites, but their recent form had left the door open for Rangers.
After a goalless first half, Manchester United took the lead with a Jack Butland own goal in the second half.
Photo by Getty images
Rangers responded in the 88th minute through Dessers, seemingly securing a point. However, Bruno Fernandes’ stoppage-time goal sealed a dramatic 2-1 win for the Red Devils.
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Reflecting on the match, Dessers expressed his frustration but praised his team’s performance:
“It’s tough to take, especially after such a rollercoaster of emotions. We thought we’d secured a point from Old Trafford, but then to lose it like that is painful.”
Dessers went on to highlight the contributions of his teammates:
“I’m proud of the performance. We came here with a few injuries and had more during the match.
The young players who came in did an unbelievable job—they showed great work ethic, courage, and the ability to play forward. For many of them, it was only their second or third game at this level, and that’s a huge credit to them.”
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Dessers, who scored in his second consecutive game, will now look to build on his form as Rangers prepare for their next Europa League clash against Royale Union SG next week.