The Nigerian football community is abuzz with discussions regarding the potential inclusion of Cyriel Dessers, the 30-year-old forward currently playing for Rangers FC in the Scottish Premiership, in the Super Eagles squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Dessers’ recent performances have reignited debates about his role in Nigeria’s national team.
Recent Performances: A Mixed Bag
In a recent Scottish Cup match against Fraserburgh, Dessers showcased his goal-scoring prowess by netting a hat-trick, leading Rangers to a 4-0 victory. Despite an early miss, he redeemed himself by scoring three goals, demonstrating resilience and skill.
However, his form in the Scottish Premiership has been inconsistent. After a debut season where he scored 16 league goals and 22 overall, his goal tally has dipped in the current season, leading to criticism from some fans. This inconsistency has sparked discussions about his readiness for international duty.
National Team Considerations
The Super Eagles’ coaching staff, led by new coach Eric Chelle, has been monitoring players’ performances ahead of the World Cup qualifiers. The squad boasts a strong attacking lineup, including Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, who have been pivotal in recent matches.
Dessers’ previous involvement with the national team has been limited. He received a call-up in March 2020 but has not been a regular feature since. His recent performances have led to renewed calls from fans and analysts for his inclusion, citing his experience in European competitions and goal-scoring abilities as valuable assets.
Expert Opinions
Football analysts are divided on Dessers’ potential inclusion. Some argue that his experience and versatility could provide tactical advantages, while others point to his inconsistent club form as a concern. The coaching staff faces the challenge of balancing current form with potential contributions to the team’s dynamics.
Public Sentiment
The Nigerian football community has been vocal on social media, with many fans advocating for Dessers’ inclusion in the squad. A recent post by Pulse Sports Nigeria posed the question: “Does Cyriel Dessers deserve a Super Eagles call-up for the World Cup qualifiers?” The responses have been mixed, reflecting the ongoing debate among supporters.
As the Super Eagles prepare for the World Cup qualifiers, the coaching staff will need to make critical decisions regarding squad selection. Dessers’ recent performances have put him back into the conversation, but considerations of team balance, current form, and tactical needs will play significant roles in the final decision.