Brilliant Nwakali helps Ponferradina to victory against FC Cartagena

The Super Eagles star played his first competitive game for his new side, and it ended with success

Super Eagles midfielder Kelechi Nwakali supplied an assist on his competitive debut for Ponferradina, as they sealed a tough 3-2 victory at FC Cartagena on their opening fixture of the 2022/23 Laliga Smartbank.

Nwakali got the nod to start when Ponferradina kicked off their season away at the Estadio Municipal Cartagonova against FC Cartagena. The Super Eagles star played in the middle of the park, in a 4-4-2 setup.

Ponferradina took the initiative early in the game, and Nwakali was at the heart of it. The 24-year-old played a superb pass onto the path of Derik Lacerda, who struck to make it 1-0 in the 7th minute.

Mikel Rico pulled one back for Cartagena in the 35th minute to ensure the first half ended 1-1.

Daniel Ojeda scored twice for Ponferradina in the second half to make it 3-1. Valle Borja pulled one back for the hosts in the 88th minute to ensure a nervy end to the game.

Nonetheless, Los blanquiazules held out for the 3-2 victory. Nwakali had a great game, registering 5 accurate long balls, 80 percent pass accuracy, and five successful ground duels.

Next up for Nwakali and his Cartagena side is a home fixture against UD Ibiza.