Dessers picks Old Trafford strike as contender for best goal of his career

Former Rangers striker Cyriel Dessers says his late equaliser against Manchester United at Old Trafford in January 2025 could be the best goal he has scored.

Rangers were trailing after Jack Butland’s own goal gave Manchester United the lead, but Dessers restored parity two minutes from the end of normal time. Bruno Fernandes then struck in stoppage time to give the Premier League side a 2-1 victory.

Dessers had come on during the closing stages and immediately made an impact. He beat the offside trap to run clear, controlled the ball with an excellent first touch and calmly finished into the bottom corner.

The Nigeria international said it was difficult to select one standout goal from his career, but his effort at Old Trafford remained particularly memorable because of the occasion and the significance of scoring at such an iconic stadium.

Speaking to PANATHINAIKON, viaGazzetta, Dessers said: “It’s very difficult for me to single out the best goal of my career. Maybe the one at Old Trafford against Manchester United. It’s special to score in this stadium.

“I also remember the ones with Feyenoord against Marseille in the Conference semi-final, where all my friends and family were there.

“But I’m sure there will be more with Panathinaikos and I hope one of them becomes my favorite. To win a title. That’s my goal.”

Dessers also recalled his goals for Feyenoord against Marseille in the Conference semi-final, with the occasion made more significant by the presence of his friends and family.

The forward is now with Panathinaikos and has been named in the club’s provisional 23-man squad for their UEFA Conference League fixture against CSKA Sofia.

The game is scheduled for the competition’s third matchday, as Dessers continues his career in Greece with the hope of creating a new favourite goal and helping Panathinaikos win a title.