Kevin Kelsy delivered a standout performance for Rangers on Sunday, scoring and providing an assist in a 3-0 victory against Celtic during the Scottish League Cup quarterfinals at Ibrox Park. The Venezuelan forward, who joined the club in the summer transfer window from MLS side Portland Timbers, helped secure a dominant win in one of European football’s oldest rivalries.
An Impactful Night at Ibrox Park
Operating in the starting lineup under manager Derk McInnes, Kelsy wasted little time making his mark on the Old Firm fixture. He set up teammate Dan Neil to open the scoring early in the match. Later in the second half, at the 59th minute, the forward capitalized on a loose ball in the box, driving home a sharp volley to double Rangers’ advantage. Neil added his second goal of the evening shortly after to cap off the 3-0 scoreline.
“Estoy feliz por marcar mi primer gol con este equipo, por el club, así que disfruto este momento, a los fanáticos, la atmósfera.”
Historical Context and Record Transfer Fee
Rangers secured his transfer from the Portland Timbers for nearly 13 million euros (unos 10.7 millones más variables)—comprising roughly 10.7 million euros plus add-ons—making him the second most expensive signing in club history. The fee places him just behind the approximately 18 million euros spent to bring Tore André Flo to Ibrox in 2000.
Reflecting on the magnitude of the rivalry and his performance, the forward noted the personal and national significance of the milestone. “Sí, es maravilloso para mí, es histórico para mi país y para mí. Lo disfruto mucho, esta experiencia. Estoy listo para más,” he stated, while also crediting the backing of his manager and squadmates: “Lo sé desde un principio, siempre me ha apoyado, tanto él como mis compañeros.”
Standout Weekend for Venezuelan Forwards Abroad
Kelsy’s performance arrived during a prolific weekend for Venezuelan attackers playing overseas. In Mexico’s Liga MX, Salomón Rondón scored for Pachuca against Atlante. Meanwhile, in the Turkish Süper Lig, Jesús Ramírez netted a brace for Çorum against Samsunspor, and Jhonder Cádiz added a goal for Three Towns against Henan in China.
These domestic and international exploits arrive ahead of upcoming national team selections. Manager Oswaldo Vizcarrondo is expected to announce the Venezuela squad this week for upcoming international friendlies in Asia against Japan, South Korea, and Jordan, setting up a competitive environment for places in the Vinotinto roster.
Looking Ahead in the Scottish League Cup
With the quarterfinal hurdle cleared, Rangers advance to the semifinals of the Scottish League Cup, where they are scheduled to face Aberdeen.
Worth a look
