Robin Pröpper experienced a glorious moment on Thursday by scoring in the Old Firm on behalf of Rangers FC. Everything came together beautifully for the 31-year-old defender.
Robin Pröpper took a moment to reflect on the remarkable goal he scored during the fierce derby against arch-rival Celtic, a moment that will forever be etched in his memory.
Leading up to the game, his father and younger brother confidently predicted his success. "My dad and my little brother told me beforehand that I was going to score," Pröpper shared, a touch of disbelief still evident in his tone. The moment felt almost surreal when his first goal for Rangers unfolded exactly as they had foretold. "They happened to be filming during that one corner. It was incredible luck. The plan was for me to contest duels at the far post during corners, but the ball just landed perfectly at my feet."
Even though the goal itself wasn’t a spectacular strike in terms of aesthetics, it carried immense significance. "It was all just amazing the atmosphere, the victory, and then managing to score on top of it all. The noise in the stadium was something else, especially after each goal. It was deafening. You try to block it out during the match; you have to. But after the 3-0, I could finally pause, take it all in, and truly experience the moment. It was such an incredible feeling."
The emotions of the match extended beyond the goal itself. Pröpper tried his best to guide his teammates throughout the intense game, despite the challenging environment. "During the match, I was trying to coach the guys. Most of it was just pointing and hoping they could hear me over the noise. I’ve experienced something similar at De Grolsch Veste, where the fans are also incredibly vocal, but here it’s on another level. There are twenty thousand more people in the stadium, and you can really feel that difference. The sound is overwhelming. The moment you step out of the tunnel, it’s like a wall of noise crashing over you."
Pröpper’s transition to Rangers has been a journey marked by challenges and triumphs, and this derby goal represents a defining moment in his career. Scoring in the heated Old Firm derby, one of the most iconic fixtures in world football, was a dream come true for the 31-year-old defender. For someone who prides himself on defensive duties, finding the net in such a critical match was an unforgettable achievement.
"The atmosphere was electric from the very start. Every cheer, every chant everything felt magnified," Pröpper recalled. The victory was not just about securing three points; it was about soaking in the passion and energy of the fans, feeling part of something much larger than the game itself. "It’s not just football here; it’s a way of life. The supporters live and breathe every moment, and you can feel their energy in every tackle, every pass, and every goal. To be part of that, to contribute in such a meaningful way, is truly special."
For Pröpper, the derby was more than just a game it was a culmination of hard work, resilience, and the unyielding support of those who believed in him. As the final whistle blew and the crowd erupted, he knew he had experienced a moment that would stay with him forever. The goal, the victory, and the sheer emotion of the occasion were a testament to his journey as a player and the unbreakable connection between the club, its players, and its fans.
Updated: 02:28, 7 Jan 2025