Glasgow Rangers forward Naderi delivered an energetic performance during his debut for the Czech Republic national team in Oviedo, though his late goal was disallowed by Greek referee Vassilis Fotias, sport.cz reported.
Disallowed Goal Halts Strong Debut Performance
The 79th minute saw Naderi tap the ball into the net after David Raya failed to hold a header from Ladislav Krejčí. Referee Vassilis Fotias whistled immediately for an earlier foul by Lukáš Červ on Robin Le Normand, wiping out the potential equalizer.
“I can’t influence it. The referee blew his whistle pretty quickly. There wasn’t even a chance to celebrate for very long. It’s a shame, but I’m moving on. I hope it works out in the next match,” Naderi said.
The forward entered the pitch with the Czech side trailing 2–0, helping spark a brief rally before a red card to Krejčí and a third goal by Mikel Merino sealed the result. Despite the scoreline, Naderi covered vast spaces, won physical duels, and shared the frontline workload with Adam Hložek.
Rangers Forward Reflects on Personal Milestone
The international appearance marks a rapid ascent for the attacker, who transferred from Hansa Rostock to Glasgow Rangers in February for a reported fee of approximately six million euros, translating to roughly 146 million Czech crowns. Just a year and a half prior, he was competing in the third tier of German football.
“Feelings are unbelievable. I enjoyed it a lot. Sure, I was a little nervous, after all it was a huge match, by far the biggest of my life,” Naderi explained. Asked what he would tell someone predicting his international call-up during his time at Rostock, he added, “I would be lying if I said I didn’t believe it at all. You have to have confidence in yourself. I am grateful for this opportunity.”
Naderi Secures Czech Eligibility After Paperwork Delays
Naderi holds multiple citizenship possibilities due to his background, born in Germany to a Czech mother and a Bulgarian father. Having declined approaches from Bulgaria, he pursued eligibility for the Czech Republic independently by handling administrative paperwork in the United Kingdom.
Although the documentation delays kept him out of the first two fixtures—watching the match against England from the stands at Eden Arena—the clearance arrived in time for the current international window.
Czech team manager Santi Denia praised the newcomer’s integration. “We are enthusiastic and proud that players like him want to join our project. He understood what his role is. I want to congratulate him on his debut. Hopefully he will continue to do so. We trust him,” Denia stated.
Wembley Preparations Ahead
With the Oviedo fixture concluded, the Czech squad turns its attention to an upcoming match at Wembley Stadium against England, following England’s recent win over Croatia. Naderi confirmed that family members who missed the trip to Spain plan to be in attendance in London.
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