- Rangers winger Djeidi Gassama is set to make his international debut for Mauritania against World Cup holders Argentina.
- His international manager Aritz Lopez Garai has spoken of his team’s excitement ahead of the sold-out fixture.
- A strong showing against the Argentine’s could be the confidence boost Gassama needs ahead of Rangers title run-in.
The Old Firm derby between Rangers and Celtic is considered one of the world’s biggest and fiercest.
Few occasions compare to the atmosphere generated when the two meet at either Ibrox or Celtic Park.
One fixture that may rival it is the Superclasico between Boca Juniors and River Plate in Argentina, particularly when held at a sold-out La Bombonera.
While not a derby, a sold-out Bombonera is something Rangers winger Djeidi Gassama will have the pleasure of experiencing this Friday.
Djeidi Gassama set for dream debut
As Gassama prepares to make his Mauritania debut against Lionel Messi’s World Cup-winning Argentina, he can look forward to over 55,000 passionate fans watching as he takes his first steps on the international stage.
He has already joined up with Aritz Lopez Garai’s side for the monumental fixture.
“It’s a pleasure to be with the Mauritanian national team,” Gassama said after his arrival.
“I hope we can achieve great things together.”
“The Scottish league is increasingly seen as a showcase for African players, offering significant visibility,” he said.
“Gassama’s acceptance to play for Mauritania after several years of reflection highlights this trend.”
Excitement ahead of Argentina clash
Head coach Lopez Garai has also spoken of the excitement within his squad ahead of the match.
“We are a small African nation that has made great strides in football recently,” he explained.
“If you look at the map, you’ll see more deserts than cities or football pitches, but we are working hard to improve our game.
“This friendly is a great honour for us. It’s a massive event. Argentina is a country obsessed with football.
“The fact that our national team will play against them is a huge moment. The players are ecstatic; for us, it will be an unforgettable day.”
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Many will watch with hope and intrigue to see whether the Ibrox winger can recapture his early-season form against some of the world’s best.
