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Sat 4 Apr14:00

Burkina Faso fans slam Nasser Djiga after Rangers defender’s ‘hesitant’ performance

Jack CranmerJack Cranmer
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  • Rangers defender Nasser Djiga criticised for hesitant play in Burkina Faso’s 1-1 draw with Guinea-Bissau.
  • He maintained a clean sheet during 55 minutes, but overly cautious on the ball and frequently passed back to goalkeeper.
  • Strong club form at Rangers hasn’t yet translated to international performances, leaving fans questioning consistency.

Rangers defender Nasser Djiga has faced criticism following his recent performance for Burkina Faso in a friendly against Guinea-Bissau.

The on-loan Wolves centre-back featured for 55 minutes in the encounter, which ended in a 1-1 draw, but some supporters were quick to highlight perceived shortcomings in his play.

Starting in a back-three, Djiga helped his side maintain a clean sheet during his time on the pitch.

Both goals were conceded in the final five minutes, after he had been substituted, meaning the direct defensive errors were not attributed to him.

Nasser Djiga criticised by Burkinabe fans

Despite this, critics have focused on what they perceive as a lack of composure and decisiveness when Djiga had possession.

One supporter commented, “He is too hesitant for me. In football, the choice must be quickly made before receiving the ball.”

Another echoed the sentiment, calling Djiga “very hesitant.”

Onlookers noted that he frequently opted for ultra-safe passes back to Burkina Faso goalkeeper Kilian Nikiema, rather than attempting to progress play or take on opponents.

One fan even joked, “he’s only playing with the keeper,” highlighting a perceived reluctance to take risks on the ball.

Club form not translating

This criticism comes despite Djiga showing strong form for Rangers in recent weeks.

His performances at Ibrox have been marked by confidence in possession and a growing understanding of the team’s defensive system, forming a formidable partnership with Emmanuel Fernandez.

However, it appears that this form has yet to fully translate to his international outings.

This has left fans questioning his ability to impose the same authority for Burkina Faso.

A comment on social media summed up the view of many: “While he’s flawless in his club, here not so much.”

This result came just three days after another friendly between the sides.

In the first outing Burkina Faso ran out 5-0 winners, with Djiga left on the bench.

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For Djiga, the challenge will be to bridge the gap between club and country performances.

He needs to start demonstrating the same poise and decision-making that has recently made him an important figure for Rangers.

With more international opportunities likely ahead, supporters will be watching closely to see whether the young centre-back can replicate his club form on the national stage.

With the defender tipped for a permanent move to Ibrox – supporters will be anxious to see if his recent resurgence will be the norm or an anomaly.

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Jack Cranmer is a writer at ReadRangers with three years of experience in journalism. They have been featured in The Herald and The Daily Record as well as being the former editor of Inside Ibrox, specializing in football writing and an expert on all things Rangers.

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