Chermiti Hat-Trick Keeps Rangers Firmly in Title Hunt

Youssef Chermiti struck a sensational hat-trick as Rangers twice came from behind to defeat Hearts 4–2, moving to within two points of the William Hill Premiership summit and keeping their title ambitions alive.

The 21-year-old Portuguese striker delivered his most decisive performance yet in a Rangers shirt, earning plaudits from the Ibrox faithful while insisting afterwards that humility remains key.

Chermiti, who joined Rangers from Everton last summer in a deal reported to be worth around £8 million, has faced scrutiny during his debut campaign. Prior to Sunday’s encounter, he had scored only twice this season before netting a brace in the 3–1 victory over Celtic at Parkhead on 3 January. He then endured a six-match goal drought before rediscovering his clinical touch against the Gorgie side.

Rangers Show Resilience at Ibrox

Hearts — the only team to have beaten Rangers in the league this season, doing so twice — made a strong start. Marc Leonard opened the scoring in the 16th minute following a defensive mix-up between Emmanuel Fernandez and Nico Raskin.

The hosts responded swiftly when Hearts substitute Michael Steinwender diverted the ball into his own net three minutes later. However, Claudio Braga restored the visitors’ lead on the half-hour mark with a well-taken header.

Chermiti then took centre stage. He levelled in the 39th minute with a powerful drive before heading Rangers in front 12 minutes after the interval. The striker sealed his hat-trick late on, finishing confidently after excellent work from substitute Djeidi Gassama.

The victory extended manager Danny Röhl’s unbeaten domestic run to 13 matches, with 11 league fixtures remaining.

Chermiti Calls for Humility

Despite his match-winning display, Chermiti was quick to emphasise the importance of staying grounded.

“I think that’s part of football and life — you have ups and downs,” he said.
“On Sunday I scored a hat-trick; tomorrow I can miss a goal. That’s football.

“It was a really good game from everyone. A big three points. Now we are looking for the win in the next game.”

He added:

“It’s really important for us. It’s really important for me, but as I said before, it was me scoring three goals — another player can do the same. The most important thing is the three points.”

When asked whether high-profile fixtures bring out his best form, Chermiti remained measured.

“Of course, but I think everyone needs to stay humble. Every game is important for us.
“In these big games we can be more focused, but every game matters.”

Title Race Intensifies

Rangers’ victory tightened the race at the top of the Premiership. However, Celtic’s 3–2 comeback win at Kilmarnock earlier in the day ensured they remain firmly in contention, sitting just one point behind their Old Firm rivals with a game in hand.

Chermiti acknowledged the mounting pressure but welcomed the challenge.

“Yes, we’re in the race. I think everyone likes a league like this — tight.
“This is where you see the good players. The pressure is on and we are looking for the title, 100 per cent.”

The forward also credited the growing belief within the squad.

“As soon as the team are confident, I feel confident. The most important thing is the team — the mentality we are building.
“Winning the title would mean everything for me. Since I joined the club, I knew how big Rangers are. It’s a pleasure to play for this club and I’m just enjoying it.”

With momentum building and confidence high, Rangers remain firmly in the hunt as the Premiership season approaches its decisive phase.