Super Eagles and Nigerian international defender Leon Balogun hinted at his potential involvement when Rangers take on Dynamo Kyiv in the third qualifying round, first leg of the UEFA Champions League on August 6.
During media duties on Monday evening, Balogun, 36, expressed that qualifying for the Champions League group stage would be a significant achievement in his career.
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Balogun, a seasoned Europa League campaigner with 20 games under his belt, has yet to debut in the Champions League group stage. This upcoming match against the Ukrainian Premier League side presents a golden opportunity.
“I have never played in the Champions League. I have played in qualifiers before, for Rangers as well, but it didn’t work out,” Balogun said on the Rangers official website.
“At this stage of my career, it would be one of my biggest achievements. That is my personal motivation, and I’m sure every single player has their reasons to aim for the group stages.”
Balogun emphasized the team’s determination to perform, despite the quick turnaround. “It’s a big occasion. I’m not too fussed about it coming early in the season because I think if you want to play in the Champions League, there is no greater motivation in football.”
Balogun was part of the Rangers squad beaten 3-2 by Malmo in the second leg of the third qualifying round of the Champions League in the 2021-2022 season.
The winner of the Rangers versus Dynamo Kyiv tie will advance to face the winner of the Red Bull Salzburg versus FC Twente tie in the Champions League qualification playoff
