Canadian media stunned by Derek Cornelius after ‘magical’ Rangers loanee wows in Wales
Rangers star Derek Cornelius scored the winning goal in Canada’s 1-0 friendly win over Wales.
Cornelius joined Rangers from Marseille on a season-long loan deal on deadline day, with the centre-back set to make his debut at Ibrox against Hearts.
At the end of the first half in Swansea, Cornelius scored a dipping free-kick from 30 yards out, wowing fans and pundits.
Canadian media were quick to praise the 27-year-old, who helped create footballing history for his country on Tuesday evening.
Cornelius helps create history for Canada
Cornelius’ first goal for Canada was an absolute stunner, with the media rightfully praising him for his heroics.
The 1-0 win over Wales marked the first time Canada had won two games in a row over European opposition, having beaten Romania 3-0 in their previous match.
TSN said: “Derek Cornelius’s first goal in a Canada shirt was a magical one. The Rangers centre-back’s sensational free kick in the 41st minute was the game’s only goal as Canada defeated Wales 1-0.”
CBC reported head coach Jesse Marsch’s reaction to the match as he was full of praise for Corenlius’ strike.
Marsch said: “That was a great goal. With the athleticism and size we have on our team, we have to become a good set-piece team.”
The Canadian Press also described the strike as “spectacular”.
Cornelius has been ever-present for Canada over the last few years, rising through the youth ranks before establishing himself as a starter for his country.
| Team | Appearances |
| Canada U21s | 3 |
| Canada U23s | 3 |
| Canada senior team | 36 |
An experienced centre-back is what Rangers need at the moment, with young Nasser Djiga struggling to meet the demands of the Scottish Premiership.
But Cornelius hasn’t been the only Rangers player to star for his country during the international break.
Thelo Aasgaard makes history on the same night
Aasgaard has had a tough start to life at Rangers, having to deal with fitness issues throughout August.
Yet Aasgaard made history for Norway on Tuesday, scoring four goals and becoming the first Rangers player to score an international hat-trick, despite starting on the bench.
With Erling Haaland also scoring five goals in the 11-1 win over Moldova, it’s brilliant for Rangers fans to see one of their players shining alongside one of the world’s biggest stars.
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