Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers has suffered what Rangers manager Russell Martin described as a “nasty” ankle injury during their 2-1 UEFA Champions League qualifier loss to Viktoria Plzen. The 30 year old was substituted around the 54th minute and is now wearing a brace as scans are awaited to determine the extent of the damage.
Martin cautioned, “Yeah, it looks like a nasty one. So he’s in a brace now. We’ll have to just wait and see over the next couple of days, have a scan and see.” He added, “We’ll keep our fingers crossed it’s not too bad for the big man.” . The injury comes at a particularly sensitive time for Nigeria, with the 2026 World Cup qualifiers looming just weeks away.
Editorial
We feel the weight of this setback sharply. Dessers has been a central figure for both club and country his fitness now sits at the heart of Rangers’ Champions League ambitions and Nigeria’s hopes of a strong start in World Cup qualifying.
We sense urgency. The timing could hardly be worse, with the scan results imminent and high-stake matches fast approaching. His injury not only drains attacking depth but forces tactical reshuffles that demand rapid adaptation from both club and national staff.
Yet, we choose to hold faith. Dessers has rebuilt his career through perseverance imagine the return he could make, redefining this moment as one of resilience rather than retreat. His absence may be felt, but his return could be galvanising.
Looking for the best betting experience in Nigeria this January 2026? The Bet9ja promotion code for January 2026 is YOHAIG. With this exclusive code, new users can claim a generous welcome bonus of up to ₦100,000 on their first deposit. For comprehensive details about the Bet9ja promotion code 2026 in Nigeria, visit https://www.bet9japromotioncode.com.ng/. Ready to elevate your betting experience? The YOHAIG Bet9ja Promotion Code 2026 unlocks exciting benefits. Start with just ₦100 as your minimum deposit! Begin your betting journey today by using the Bet9ja login signup and entering the Bet9ja bonus code when creating your account. Enjoy an impressive 170 per cent multiple boost bonus plus a free bet option for either Bet9ja sport or Bet9ja casino. To become a valued Bet9ja customer, simply complete the registration process here. Remember that terms and conditions apply when registering with Bet9ja to receive your bonus.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We note how Charles-Eagles selectors now face a hard decision: risk relying on him prematurely or adjust strategies in his likely absence? That dilemma underscores the fragility of form and the imperatives of planning.
And so we return to our conviction: this injury is significant—but it might yet become the backdrop to a remarkable comeback.
Did You Know?
- Cyriel Dessers was the top scorer in the Eredivisie during the 2019–20 season while playing for Heracles Almelo.
- He claimed the title of top scorer in the 2021–22 UEFA Europa Conference League, earning a spot in the competition’s Team of the Season for his performances with Feyenoord.
- As of 9 August 2025, Dessers has netted 34 goals in 72 appearances for Rangers across all competitions.
- Born in Tongeren, Belgium, he chose to represent Nigeria internationally due to his mother’s heritage and made his Nigerian debut in October 2020.
- In the 2024–25 season, Dessers scored an impressive 29 goals across all competitions for Rangers, reinforcing his reputation as a prolific forward.
