Soccer
Emmanuel Fernandez of Rangers before the match. Copyright: ImagoxVagelisxGeorgariou
Rangers centre-back Emmanuel Fernandez made his debut for the Super Eagles of Nigeria against Iran, before scoring his first goal, on his first start in the 2-2 draw against Jordan, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 24-year-old took the big leap from Peterborough United to Rangers in the summer, but his development has seen him linked with top European sides. However, former Super Eagles defender Juwon Oshaniwa isn’t surprised.
Having achieved a childhood dream of playing in the Green and White colours of Nigeria, Fernandez could be set to exit Rangers in the summer, amidst interest from top sides.
Honoured And Grateful To Play For Nigeria… First Start, First Goal. Enjoyable Experience
— EF (@EFernandez17_) April 1, 2026
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Soccer Juwon Oshaniwa reacts to Emmanuel Fernandez’s Super Eagles debut
Oshaniwa represented Nigeria at the AFCON 2013 tournament and the 2014 FIFA World Cup, before joining Hearts in 2015.
The full-back believes Fernandez is a valuable addition to the Nigerian National team, but is not surprised he fits in like a glove with Eric Chelle’s team.
“It’s clear Emmanuel Fernandez will be a valuable addition to the national team,” the 35-year-old said in quotes revealed by Glasgow Times.
“His strong performance didn’t surprise me because I know the Scottish league is very competitive.
“And playing in such an environment helped shape Fernandez into a player capable of handling international football.
“Being exposed to a physically demanding and tactically disciplined league makes him well-suited to the challenges of the Super Eagles set-up. He will be very important for the team.
“But we are still a work in progress, and integrating new players like Fernandez is part of that process, bringing fresh energy and competition into the squad,” Oshaniwa concluded.
Emmanuel Fernandez could lift his first silverware with Rangers if they manage to edge Hearts at the top of the SPFL table, although they’re three points behind.
Adefolahan Guerreiro
Adefolahan is a multilingual sports journalist and football writer whose work spans outlets like Soccernet Nigeria, Pure Football UK, and Royalsportz.
With a sharp eye for detail and a background in college sports, he tells the African football story with depth, flair, and global perspective.
Fluent in English, Spanish, and German, he brings a cross-cultural voice to his coverage, blending insight with accessibility for readers around the world.
His portfolio includes interviews with top Nigerian stars like Finidi George, Junior Lokosa, Sikiru Alimi, Sodiq Ismaila, and Abraham Onahi Ogbu.
A devoted Borussia Dortmund fan, Adefolahan thrives on the emotion and rhythm of the beautiful game. Away from work, he’s a sci-fi enthusiast and series lover who enjoys exploring how sport, storytelling, and culture collide.
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