Rangers secured their place in the Scottish League Cup final on Saturday, 31 October, after grinding out a dominant 1-0 victory over Aberdeen at Hampden Park.

Derek McInnes’ side controlled proceedings for the vast majority of the contest, boasting 74% possession and firing 17 shots, before finally making their pressure count in the 83rd minute. James Penrice, operating from midfield on this occasion, whipped a dangerous, low ball into the 16-yard area, allowing centre-forward Ryan Naderi to react sharply and tap home the decisive goal.

Following the match, Naderi spoke to RangersTV to reflect on his match-winning contribution at the national stadium. He said:

Hard to describe, I’m so happy. It’s an amazing feeling. It’s my first time here in this stadium, I really enjoyed. The defence was amazing. And I’m just happy that we’ve won it here.

Danny Rohl ‘likes’ Ryan Naderi’s interview with Rangers media

When Rangers posted Naderi’s post-match interview on their official Instagram handle, eagle-eyed fans quickly noticed a prominent figure engage with the post. Danny Rohl was one of the most high-profile names to hit ‘like’ on the video clip.

Rohl remains an admirer of the forward‘s development. Eyebrows were initially raised when the German tactician orchestrated the £4.7million transfer of Naderi from German third-division outfit Hansa Rostock midway through the 2025-26 season.

However, Naderi has systematically silenced any initial sceptics. The 23-year-old striker has now netted eight goals in 16 appearances across all competitions under McInnes this term, with four of those strikes serving as crucial match-winners.

Reflecting on his movement to anticipate Penrice’s low delivery, Naderi showed a lighthearted side when breaking down the match-winning moment.

The ball is there. It comes inside, I had a feeling it could be there. Just a simple tap-in. I think that’s one of my better goals. I’m just joking.

Rangers will face either Hibernian or Hearts in the League Cup final. The showdown is scheduled to take place on 13 December. Meanwhile, McInnes‘ side will look to return to winning ways in the Scottish Premiership when they visit St Mirren on Saturday, 7 November, before breaking away for the international break.

With a cup final at Hampden now locked into the calendar, Naderi’s rapid rise continues to vindicate the scouting faith shown in him – something Rohl was clearly delighted to acknowledge.