Europa League: Alexander Djiku Scores for Fenerbahçe in Home Defeat to Rangers

Ghanaian defender Alexander Djiku came off the bench to score for Fenerbahçe, but his efforts weren’t enough as the Turkish side fell to a 1-3 home defeat against Rangers in the first leg of the UEFA Europa League round of 16.

Djiku, 30, was initially not included in coach Jose Mourinho’s starting lineup but was called into action early in the match, replacing the injured Caglar Soyuncu in the 16th minute. The game started poorly for Fenerbahçe as they conceded just six minutes in, with Nigeria’s Cyriel Dessers putting Rangers ahead.

Despite the early setback, Djiku responded quickly, scoring a close-range goal from a corner kick in the 30th minute to equalize for Fenerbahçe. However, Rangers regained control in the second half, with Vaclav Cerny netting twice to seal the victory for the Scottish side.

The result leaves Fenerbahçe with a difficult task ahead, as they must now overcome a two-goal deficit in the second leg at Ibrox next week.

Djiku will also be aiming to stay fit ahead of Ghana’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar. He will be hoping for a place in coach Otto Addo’s squad as the Black Stars continue their journey toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup.