Nigeria’s William Troost-Ekong Celebrates, Mikel Obi Denied In England

The Nigerian duo was actively involved as their respective sides battled different opponents in the second tier of English football on Saturday afternoon

Former Nigeria international Mikel Obi delivered another assured performance, but it was not enough to help Stoke City record an away win over Blackburn Rovers at the Ewood Park.

Nick Powell’s 38th-minute strike was the difference between two struggling sides struggling in the first half, but John Buckley struck midway through the second half to earn a share of the points for the hosts.

Michael O’Neill’s men were on course for their first win in six matches with Mikel Obi doing well to dictate play for the visitors while helping his defence to avoid conceding a goal for 76 minutes.

But Blackburn Rovers, hurt after picking up just one win in their last five games in all competitions, fought back hard to grab an equaliser that their efforts merited.

At the Vicarage Road, William Troost-Ekong was immense in defence as Watford put Huddersfield Town to the sword, handling a 2-0 defeat to Carlos Corberan’s men.

After a goalless first half, Tom Cleverley opened the scoring in the 54th minute before Joao Pedro added a second ten minutes later to power Watford to their 11th victory of the Championship campaign.

Ekong featured in his 13th league game of the season and played his part as the Hornets recorded another fine clean sheet.

The former Udinese star made one interception and won one of the two aerial duels he got into, while completing 45 of the 59 passes he attempted.

Troost-Ekong and Watford will hope to continue their push for automatic promotion when they host Barnsley on Tuesday.