Super Eagles defender Leon Balogun is in contention for Rangers’ Europa League quarterfinal second leg against Athletic Bilbao after returning to full training. The 36 year old was seen working with the squad, including compatriot Cyriel Dessers, at the Rangers Training Centre in Glasgow ahead of Thursday’s clash at San Mamés Barria.
Balogun’s absence from the weekend’s domestic fixture against Aberdeen raised concerns about his fitness. However, his inclusion in the team’s final training session before departure signals a likely return to the matchday squad.
The veteran centre-back played a pivotal role in the first-leg goalless draw, helping a ten-man Rangers side secure a clean sheet at Ibrox after an early red card to Robin Pröpper. Balogun’s composure and experience were instrumental in keeping Bilbao at bay.
Rangers, with a strong away record in this season’s Europa League having beaten Malmö, Nice, and Fenerbahce on the road are hopeful of producing another inspired performance in Spain. Balogun, who was part of the 2022 Europa League finalist squad, has featured in six European matches this term, including away ties at Old Trafford and Şükrü Saracoğlu.
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Editorial
Leon Balogun’s steady return to form is a comforting sight not just for Rangers fans, but for followers of Nigerian football. At 36, he continues to defy expectations, anchoring a European campaign with poise and purpose.
His role in Rangers’ gritty first-leg draw against Bilbao was vintage Balogun no-frills defending, aerial dominance, and leadership. These are the qualities that have defined his career and continue to make him invaluable, especially in high-pressure continental ties.
Rangers know the odds in Bilbao won’t be kind. San Mamés is hostile territory, and Athletic are known for their relentless home energy. But this Rangers side has built a reputation for thriving in adversity. And in Balogun, they have a centre-back who has seen it all and won’t be fazed.
More than anything, Balogun’s story is a lesson in longevity. He’s no longer just a name on the team sheet—he’s a standard for what experience, discipline, and professionalism look like. For younger Nigerian defenders aiming to make their mark in Europe, he remains a blueprint.
Whether this Europa League run ends in Spain or stretches further, Balogun has already shown he’s still built for the big stage.
Did You Know?
- Leon Balogun played in the 2022 UEFA Europa League final with Rangers but did not feature during the match against Eintracht Frankfurt.
- He has played in Germany, England, and Scotland, representing clubs like Werder Bremen, Brighton, and Wigan Athletic.
- Balogun made his international debut for Nigeria in 2014 and was part of the 2018 World Cup squad in Russia.
- Rangers have not lost a Europa League away match this season, winning all three of their previous knockout fixtures on the road.
- San Mamés Barria, Athletic Bilbao’s home ground, is one of Spain’s most atmospheric stadiums and hosted games during Euro 2020.
