Cyriel Dessers has cemented his status as one of Nigeria’s most prolific football exports after claiming the Scottish Premiership Golden Boot for the 2024-25 season. The Rangers striker secured the top scorer award on the final matchday, finishing the campaign with 18 league goals. Two goals clear of his closest challengers, Simon Murray of Dundee and Daizen Maeda of Celtic. They both ended with 16 goals each. Dessers’ decisive strike in the second minute of Rangers’ 2-2 draw with Hibernian on the last day proved pivotal. It ensured he finished the season as Scotland’s undisputed goal king.
Despite Dessers’ individual brilliance, Rangers were unable to capture the league title, finishing second in the table. Dessers’ personal achievement softened the disappointment of missing out on silverware. He described it as a “little consolation” for not lifting a major trophy with the club. His consistency and goal-scoring instinct were crucial in keeping Rangers competitive throughout the campaign. Especially during the final stretch, where he scored in five consecutive Premiership matches. This feat was previously matched only by Alfredo Morelos and James Tavernier at the club.
Season Stats
Dessers’ overall contribution this season has been outstanding. Across all competitions, he netted 29 goals and provided seven assists in 55 appearances. A career-best tally that highlights his attacking quality and importance to the team. This marks a significant improvement from his debut season at Rangers. He scored 22 goals in all competitions a year ago, showing clear progression in his output and influence.
His performances have silenced early-season critics, who questioned his consistency. He has re-established himself as Rangers’ first-choice forward after a brief spell out of the team.
The Most in Form Nigerian Forward Not Named Osimhen
With his Golden Boot triumph, Dessers joins an elite group of Nigerian forwards making waves in Europe. While Victor Osimhen remains the most high-profile Nigerian striker, Dessers’ scoring exploits in Scotland make him arguably the most in-form Nigerian player on the continent outside of Osimhen. His ability to deliver under pressure and maintain top form throughout the season makes a compelling case for his inclusion in Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming Unity Cup games.
As Rangers prepare for a new era under a fresh permanent manager, Dessers’ proven goal-scoring ability ensures he will be a vital asset for the club moving forward. For Nigerian football fans, his rise to the top of the Scottish scoring charts is a source of pride. The Unity Cup selectors would be wise to recognise his current form. He definitely deserves to be given an opportunity to shine on the international stage.