Chelsea secured their first win and clean sheet under new manager Enzo Maresca, thanks in part to the impressive performances of Nigerian players Tosin Adarabioyo, Noni Madueke, Lesley Ugochukwu, and Tyrique George. The Blues thrashed Mexican outfit Club América 3-0 in a friendly match at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.
Tosin, a summer signing from Fulham, started the game and helped Chelsea record their first clean sheet under Maresca. Madueke, another Nigerian player, scored a deserving goal in the 79th minute, floating the ball into the top corner for 3-0.
Ugochukwu and George came off the bench in the 63rd and 83rd minutes, respectively, with George replacing Madueke. Carney Chukwuemeka, a fifth Nigerian player, was a non-playing substitute.
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Chelsea’s victory was marked by impressive performances from their summer signings. Christopher Nkunku put the Blues ahead after just two minutes, converting a spot kick after Romeo Lavia was fouled in the box. Marc Guiu doubled the advantage midway through the first half, heading the ball into the net for his first Chelsea goal.
The win marks a positive start for Maresca’s tenure at Chelsea, and the Nigerian players’ contributions will be crucial in the upcoming season. The Blues’ next friendly is against Manchester City at Ohio Stadium on Saturday, August 3.
In other related news, Nigerian wing-back has signed a new deal with West Ham United, while Super Eagles star Kelechi Iheanacho has joined Sevilla on a two-year deal. The Super Falcons, however, suffered a disappointing defeat to Japan in the 2024 Olympics, despite Echegini’s superb goal.
The new season approaches and Nigerian players are making waves in European football, and their performances will be closely watched by fans and coaches alike.
