NafisaRangers finally had something to smile about on Sunday as Derek McInnes’ side secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Aberdeen at Pittodrie.
After the humiliation of being dumped out of Europe by Jablonec on penalties just days earlier, Rangers desperately needed a response, and Lawrence Shankland provided it from the spot in the second half. The striker’s 69th-minute penalty proved enough to settle a scrappy contest and give McInnes his first Scottish Premiership win of the campaign.
It was not exactly the dominant performance Rangers supporters would have wanted, but after such a miserable night in Europe, the three points were undoubtedly the priority.
There was also late drama when Aberdeen appeared to have equalised through Kevin Nisbet, only for the goal to be ruled out following a VAR review for a foul in the build-up.
While Rangers were celebrating a crucial victory, however, news was emerging elsewhere involving a former Ibrox player that will certainly catch the attention of supporters.
And remarkably, the player in question has now been released by his club just months after making the move.
Rabbi Matondo released after short-lived spell
Former Rangers winger Rabbi Matondo has left Norwegian side Brann after less than six months at the club.
The 25-year-old has mutually agreed to terminate his contract with the Norwegian outfit after failing to establish himself in their plans.
Matondo joined Brann in March, but his time in Norway never really got going. He managed just three appearances for the club before becoming a free agent with only four days remaining in the transfer window.
Brann sporting director Per-Ove Ludvigsen confirmed that the lack of playing opportunities ultimately led to the decision to part company.
“He has not received as much playing time as we all had hoped, and we have therefore jointly agreed to terminate the contract.”
Matondo also admitted that his departure was disappointing, particularly because he never really had the opportunity to show Brann supporters what he could do.
“It was just a shame that I didn’t get to show the fans what I’m good at on the pitch.
“In that sense, it’s sad, but I wish the team all the best. I met great teammates, and I’ll continue to follow and cheer for them.”
The timing makes the situation even more striking.
Matondo had only arrived at Brann in March after leaving Rangers, where he spent almost four years.
His Rangers career produced eight goals in 70 appearances, although he struggled to consistently convince during his time at Ibrox and eventually moved on in search of a fresh start.
Unfortunately for the Welsh winger, that fresh start has lasted barely half a year.
He is now back on the market and will have to find another club after making only three appearances in Norway.
For Rangers, meanwhile, the focus remains firmly on recovering from their European embarrassment.
McInnes will hope the win over Aberdeen can provide the platform for a much-needed improvement, with Rangers already facing considerable pressure following their failure to qualify for European football.
Shankland’s penalty may have delivered the result they desperately needed, but there is still plenty of work ahead at Ibrox.
And somewhere in Norway, Matondo will now be hoping his next move finally gives him the regular football he has been searching for.
Nafisa
