Balogun Credits Experience with Nigerian Fans’ Fury for Steeling Him Against Pressure at Rangers

Leon Balogun, the seasoned Rangers defender, believes his time with Nigeria’s national team prepared him to face the high expectations of Rangers fans, especially after narrowly securing a 1-0 victory over Hearts on Sunday. The tense win, courtesy of an early goal by striker Cyriel Dessers, saw Philippe Clement’s side struggle to maintain control, leaving fans on edge at Ibrox.

Reflecting on the pressure of such moments, Balogun recalled an intense experience from four years ago, when Nigeria’s supporters pelted the team bus with stones after a disappointing 4-4 draw against Sierra Leone in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. Despite holding a 4-1 lead, Nigeria’s team was met with fans’ fury on the return to their hotel. “Playing for Nigeria actually prepared me,” Balogun explained. “They probably have just as much expectation as our supporters.”

Now in his fourth season at Rangers, Balogun has learned to carry the weight of these expectations. “It’s just the club. You have to put that weight on your shoulders and deal with it,” he said, noting that for some players, especially younger ones, adapting to such pressure can be challenging.

After Rangers’ hard-fought victory, Balogun acknowledged the team’s struggles, particularly in the second half, and felt they could have taken more control. Despite missed opportunities, he was pleased with the clean sheet and is focused on the team’s continued efforts to bridge the gap with league leaders Celtic after the international break.