AliousAfter an unforgettable week for Rangers, moments of pure elation have been plentiful, each one capable of sparking the kind of joy that defies words.
Take Jack Butland’s heroics, for instance—two penalty saves that sent Jose Mourinho and Fenerbahce packing from the Europa League, securing Rangers a quarter-final clash with Athletic Bilbao next month.
Or perhaps Mohamed Diomande’s stunning volley that handed Rangers a commanding 2-0 lead at halftime against Celtic in the Old Firm derby.
Then there’s Hamza Igamane’s breathtaking, match-defining strike in the 88th minute—a “phenomenal” finish that silenced Parkhead and delivered Rangers their first victory on Celtic turf since 2020, a game played in eerie silence due to COVID restrictions, more akin to a quiet swim meet than the roaring cauldron of British football’s most intense rivalry.
Back in 2020, Igamane was just a teenager from Temara, Morocco, taking his first steps with AS Far Rabat after being spotted on the streets. It was an opportunity he grasped tightly, a pattern that’s defined his young career.
From going pro in Morocco to earning a £1.7 million move to Rangers last summer, and now burying a decisive goal past Kasper Schmeichel to clinch a historic Old Firm win, Igamane has made a habit of seizing the day. His next chapter? A debut for Morocco’s senior national team—an ambition he’s determined to turn into another triumph.
A Dream Realized for Rangers’ Rising Star
Last week, Morocco boss Walid Regragui handed Igamane his first senior call-up with the Atlas Lions, and a debut looms large in Friday’s World Cup qualifier against Niger.
The 21-year-old has already turned heads in training, reportedly outshining Fenerbahce’s £17 million veteran Youssef En-Nesyri with dazzling displays that have left Regragui pondering his attacking options. Reflecting on the moment he learned of his selection, Igamane couldn’t hide his delight.
“I was tied up with things, but when I finally checked my phone, it was overflowing with calls and messages from my family and friends congratulating me,” he said with a grin. “The happiness I felt—it’s beyond words.
Every footballer dreams of playing for their country, and now that dream is mine to live.”
For Igamane, 2025 was always circled as the year to break into the senior international scene.
A standout in Morocco’s Under-23 African Cup of Nations-winning side a few years ago, he’s now on the cusp of the big stage. With Morocco set to host the AFCON in December—the first time since 1988—a handful of eye-catching performances between now and then could cement his spot in Regragui’s squad.
Rubbing Shoulders with the Elite
Igamane’s integration into the Atlas Lions has been seamless, thanks to a warm welcome from a star-studded roster featuring talents like Bayer Leverkusen’s rapid winger Amine Adli, Real Madrid’s creative force Brahim Diaz, Leicester City’s promising youngster Bilal El Khannouss, and full-backs Achraf Hakimi of Paris Saint-Germain and Noussair Mazraoui of Manchester United.
“The team made me feel right at home, like I was part of the family from day one,” Igamane shared. “The vibe here is incredible—everything’s set up to help me settle in fast.” He’s thrilled to be surrounded by world-class players from Europe’s top clubs, a group he believes elevates Morocco’s standing on the global stage.
“We’ve got amazing talent representing us at the highest level, and it’s pushing us to be stronger as a unit. We’re here to give our all, to deliver performances that reflect Morocco’s pride.”
With his eyes set on honoring the jersey, Igamane is brimming with gratitude and determination. “To everyone who’s believed in me, thank you—I promise to pour everything into this chance and make you proud.
Morocco forever!” For Rangers fans and the Atlas Lions faithful alike, Igamane’s meteoric rise is a story only just beginning to unfold.
Alious
