“I’m Happy, There Will Be More Coming” — Olwethu Makhanya Celebrates First Rangers Goal After Frustrating Draw

South African defender Olwethu Makhanya has found a special reason to smile after scoring his maiden goal for Scottish giants Rangers, although the personal achievement came on a frustrating night for his team.

The Bafana Bafana international opened his Rangers scoring account during their 2-2 Scottish Premiership draw against Heart of Midlothian at Tynecastle on 28 October 2026.

Makhanya’s late contribution rescued a point for Rangers, but the result left the defender disappointed because his side had been hoping to collect all three points.

Speaking after the match, the former Philadelphia Union defender admitted that getting his first goal for the club was a positive moment, even though he could not fully enjoy it because of the outcome.

“I’m happy, I feel like since I got my first, there will be more coming. So, that’s the only positive I can take from the game,” Makhanya said.

His words reflect the confidence of a young defender who is determined to contribute more than just defensive performances as he continues adapting to life at Ibrox.

Rangers had taken an early advantage through Kevin Kelsy, but Hearts responded strongly after the break.

Claudio Braga and Calvin Miller scored to turn the contest around, leaving the visitors facing another difficult away result.

With Rangers searching for an equaliser, Makhanya stepped forward and found the net with a header in the 89th minute. His goal ensured that the visitors avoided defeat and earned a share of the points.

For the 22-year-old, it was an important personal milestone. Scoring his first goal for a historic club such as Rangers is a moment he will remember, particularly as he continues working to establish himself in Scottish football.

However, the defender made it clear that individual achievements must come second to the team's collective objectives.

Despite celebrating his breakthrough, Makhanya was honest about the team's performance.

He described the overall display as disappointing and admitted that Rangers needed to show more character, particularly after losing control of the match following half-time.

The South African also pointed to a recurring problem, explaining that the team had struggled to begin second halves strongly since returning from the international break.

He believes Rangers must learn to manage important moments better instead of allowing opponents to dictate the direction of matches.

The draw against Hearts followed another 2-2 result away to Dundee, making the dropped points particularly frustrating for the Ibrox side.

Makhanya's progress at Rangers is also attracting attention from South African football supporters, who will be encouraged to see another Bafana Bafana player making an impression abroad.

The defender joined Rangers from Philadelphia Union in July 2026 after previously developing his career at Stellenbosch FC.

His first goal represents another step in his adaptation to the demands of Scottish football. While his main responsibility remains defending, the ability to contribute in attacking situations could make him an increasingly valuable option.

Source:

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