Super Eagles defender Leon Balogun has revealed that the intense pressure of representing Nigeria helped prepare him for life at Scottish giants Rangers.
Softfootball understands that the experienced centre-back reflected on one of the most difficult moments of his international career, explaining how the expectations surrounding the Super Eagles equipped him to handle the demands at Ibrox.
Balogun recalled a dramatic Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Sierra Leone, where Nigeria surrendered a commanding lead to draw 4-4. He revealed that the atmosphere after the match became so tense that security officials advised the players not to sit near the windows of the team bus.
According to the defender, angry supporters threw stones at the bus as the team travelled back to their hotel, an experience he says highlighted the enormous expectations placed on the national team.
The 36-year-old admitted that while the incident was unsettling, it strengthened his mentality and helped him cope with the pressure that comes with playing for a club like Rangers.
Now in his second spell at Ibrox, Balogun believes the expectations at Rangers are similar to those of the Super Eagles, where supporters demand success every time the team takes the field.
He acknowledged that some criticism can occasionally feel harsh, but insisted that such pressure is part of representing a club with Rangers’ rich history and passionate fan base.
