It was an afternoon of mixed feelings for Super Eagles stars in the Premier League
The English Premier League returned for week two this weekend, and it has been a game week that has brought different tidings for Nigerian players involved.
Alex Iwobi played 90 minutes for Everton in their 2-1 loss at Aston Villa.
After their heartbreaking loss to Chelsea at Goodison Park last week, Everton looked to return to winning ways in their second game against Aston Villa at Villa Park.
The game started well for Everton, as they matched everything that the villains brought to the table. Iwobi was decent in the middle of the Park.
However, a lapse in concentration saw Dammy Ings open the scoring for Aston Villa just after the half-hour mark.
Buendia then doubled Aston Villa’s lead in the 85th minute. Lucas Digne scored an own goal two minutes later, but it was not enough for Everton, as they fell 2-1 to Aston Villa.
Iwobi was the shining light for Everton in the afternoon, as he was tireless in midfield and hardly set a foot wrong. The Super Eagles star had 59 touches and an 80 percent pass accuracy. He also added defensively with four tackles in the game.
Elsewhere in North London, Kelechi Iheanacho came off the bench to assist a goal for Leicester City in their 4-2 loss at Arsenal.
A brace from Gabriel Jesus gave the Gunners a two-goal lead within 35 minutes. Then Granit Xhaka and Martinelli added one each for Arsenal.
Iheanacho assisted James Maddison’s gall writhing four minutes after he came off the bench, and Saliba scored an own goal. However, the goals were insufficient for the foxes.
Ndidi had a decent game for Leicester City, showing his physicality and defensive ability. The former Genk man had two clearances, two tackles, and an 87 percent pass accuracy.
Nonetheless, Rodgers would look to take the lessons from the game, especially concerning Iheanacho. His introduction added some bite to his attack, and the Nigerian looked sharp on the afternoon.
Meanwhile, it was a great afternoon for Joe Aribo as Southampton, as he registered his first Premier League goal in the Saints’ dramatic 2-2 draw against Leeds United.
After a goalless first half, Rodrigo scored two goals before the hour mark for Leeds. Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhüttl brought in Aribo from the bench in the 61st minute.
The Nigerian midfielder pulled one back for his side eleven minutes after his introduction.
Aribo received a through pass which put him one-on-one with Leeds’ goalkeeper Illan Meslier, and he finished with aplomb to make it 2-1.
Nine minutes later, Kyle Walker drew level for the Saints. Southampton held on to ensure a 2-2 draw.
