Bafana Bafana star turns heads in Scotland
· The South African
The 22-year-old Makhanya played the full 90 minutes as Rangers secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Czech Republic side FK Jablonec at Ibrox on Thursday night. The result gives the Scottish giants a narrow advantage heading into next week’s second leg.
The Durban-born central defender arrived at Rangers after making the move from Major League Soccer in a reported £3 million transfer. The former Stellenbosch FC star wasted little time showing why the club invested heavily in his services.
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OLWETHU MAKHANYA IMPRESSES
The Bafana Bafana defender delivered a composed display at the heart of the Rangers defence, particularly impressive considering the physical demands of Scottish football.
Makhanya completed 87 of his 89 passes for an outstanding 98% completion rate, while also registering 101 touches as he played an important role in Rangers’ build-up from the back.
His defensive numbers were equally impressive. Makhanya won all three of his ground duels, completed eight tackles and made two interceptions, while one crucial clearance helped Rangers protect their slender advantage.
It was a performance that earned him the Man of the Match award. It could prove significant as he continues to establish himself at one of Scotland’s biggest clubs.
RANGERS FC BOSS PRAISES STAR
Rangers FC manager Derek McInnes was delighted with how quickly Makhanya has adapted following his move from the MLS.
“It’s a different type of ball obviously, the MLS to what he’s having to experience here. But I do think he’s dealt with everything we’ve asked him,” McInnes commented to broadcasters.
The Rangers boss also highlighted qualities that attracted the club to Makhanya in the first place. It was his recovery pace, one-on-one defending and composure in possession.
“What we did like about him when we watched him was his ability to go man for man, his ability to not get lose a foot race and his calmness in the ball,” McInnes added.
With a 1-0 lead to protect in the second leg, Makhanya will now be hoping to produce another commanding performance. It will look to help Rangers complete the job in the UEFA Conference League.