“Who would have thought?” – Snubbed Dessers powers Feyenoord to European final

Ten goals in the Europa Conference League has seen Cyriel Dessers become Feyenoord’s talisman in Europe

When former Super Eagles coach Austin Eguavoen was asked why he didn't invite Dessers for the AFCON and the World Cup Qualifiers, he said he was yet to watch him.

Eguavoen’s response was rightly criticised by Nigerians as it painted a comical picture of his competence as a coach.

The Belgian-born Super Eagles forward has since announced himself, and has proven too good to be ignored in Europe for Feyenoord. So good has hit form been for the Rotterdammers that fans are donating money for the team to sign him permanently. There's no better way to be seen.

His goals have helped Feyenoord qualify for the European Conference League final, their first final in two decades.

In Dessers’ post-match interview, he said who would have thought that they would escape the intimidating atmosphere at the Stade De Velodrome to pip Marseille to a European final.

“We showed that it's not just about good football; we can also battle for a result. Who would have thought at the beginning of the season that we would reach a European final?

“This is amazing. It still hasn't sunk in. To get a result in an intimidating stadium like this is incredible. We gave away very few chances, so we deserve this. We're going to Tirana. We're in the final!” a joy-laden Dessers said.

Ahead of Nigeria’s double friendly games against Ecuador and Mexico and for the African Cup of Nations qualifiers, it’s only appropriate to give a chance to a player who has proven time and again that he deserves it.