Outstanding Napoli-owned Nigerian playmaker nets ‘perfect’ goal in Serie B opener

The Nigerian maestro delivered a man-of-the-match performance to open the second-tier campaign in fine style

Italian-Nigerian midfielder Michael Folorunsho took his fine preseason form into the weekend as he helped Bari earn a decent 2-2 draw at Parma on Friday night.

Having gained promotion to Serie B last term, Bari faced a difficult matchday one clash against former Serie A regulars Parma.

But the visitors did well to cancel the home side's opening goal before Folorunsho made it 2-1 for Michele Mignani's men in the 35th minute. It was a well-crafted goal, with Folorunsho brilliantly exchanging passes with striker Cheddira before sending an unstoppable long-range shot past goalkeeper Chichizola.

Parma equalised deep into first-half injury time to earn a share of the spoils.

But Bari boss Mignani is more impressed with Folorunsho's ‘perfectly' executed strike, which highlights his team's general positive display.

“We built a good action and Michael (Folorunsho) finished it in the best way by hitting the ball perfectly,” the 50-year-old tactician told the media after the encounter, as per Tutto Bari.

“The championship has started now and it's long. We are going on the pitch with the enthusiasm of last year. We are giving continuity to that.

“Today the guys were very good, with a little bit of emotion from everyone. Our goal is always to try to win.”

Napoli-owned Folorunsho has been the perfect loan signing for Bari this summer.

The 24-year-old was also on target in the 4-1 demolition of Verona in the Italian Cup in midweek.