Badredine Bouanani benefits from Dundee mistake to score first Rangers goal

Badredine Bouanani received a helping hand from Dundee as he opened his Rangers account during Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Dens Park.

The Algerian winger was handed a starting spot for the Scottish Premiership encounter and made a noticeable impact despite Rangers ultimately dropping points after surrendering their lead.

It was only Bouanani’s second league start since joining the Ibrox club on a surprise loan deal from Stuttgart during the summer transfer window.

Derek McInnes opted to bring the 21-year-old into the starting XI in place of Kevin Kelsy, and the decision appeared to pay off as the winger provided one of the few bright moments in an otherwise frustrating afternoon for Rangers.

Bouanani produced an impressive finish to get his name on the scoresheet, although Dundee’s defensive shortcomings also played a part in allowing him the opportunity.

Dundee’s defensive positioning helped Bouanani

Bouanani has developed a reputation for operating on the right wing before cutting inside onto his stronger left foot. It was a trademark that caught the eye during his time with OGC Nice before he moved to the Bundesliga.

Rangers supporters had been waiting to see more of that attacking quality since his arrival in Glasgow, and the winger offered a glimpse of his ability against Dundee.

After getting two opportunities to find the target, Bouanani finally made one count in the 42nd minute, curling a superb effort from the edge of the penalty area into the top corner.

His strike left the travelling support delighted, but former Rangers defender Richard Foster highlighted how Dundee’s midfield positioning had given the attacker the space he needed.

Speaking on BBC Sportscene on Saturday, Foster explained that the home side’s midfielders were positioned too deep, leaving Bouanani with insufficient pressure as he prepared to shoot.

Foster praised the quality of the finish, describing it as an “absolutely outrageous” goal, while also noting that Bouanani had been Rangers’ liveliest player during the opening half.

Although Dundee’s defensive organisation contributed to the opportunity, the Algerian still deserves credit for executing the finish with such precision.

Bouanani’s statistics underline his contribution

The goal was the highlight of Bouanani’s performance, but his overall display also offered encouraging signs for McInnes.

The winger registered three unblocked attempts on goal and maintained 100 per cent shooting accuracy with those efforts finding the target.

He also created one chance for his teammates and recorded seven touches inside the opposition penalty area, the highest total of any player on the pitch.

Bouanani attempted three dribbles, demonstrating his willingness to take on defenders, while contributing defensively with three actions and winning two duels.

Those figures suggest the 21-year-old was involved at both ends of the pitch and offered Rangers a useful attacking outlet throughout the contest.

However, his first goal for the club could not prevent the visitors from surrendering their advantage, with Dundee fighting back to secure a share of the points.

McInnes will now hope Bouanani can build on this performance as he continues adapting to Scottish football. His display at Dens Park provided a reminder of the technical quality that persuaded Rangers to bring him to Ibrox, and the manager will be eager to see more of it in the coming weeks.