Okuaghare makes Midtjylland debut as Etim helps extend unbeaten run

FC Midtjylland maintained their unbeaten start to the 2026-27 Danish Superliga season with a 3-2 win over Lyngby at the MCH Arena on Sunday, as 18-year-old midfielder Joseph Okuaghare made his first-team debut and Friday Etim scored.

The result means Midtjylland have avoided defeat in their opening 12 league matches. Their victory was secured in a closely contested game after both sides exchanged goals in the second half.

Five of the 20 players in manager Mike Tullberg’s matchday squad were eligible to represent Nigeria. Etim started after being named the Superliga Player of the Month last month, while goalkeeper Ovie Ejeheri, Okuaghare, Julius Emefile and Stanley Iheanacho were included among the substitutes.

Midtjylland took the lead after 17 minutes when Cho Gue-sung found the net. Lyngby responded through Simon Colyn, who levelled the score in the 32nd minute.

Philip Billing restored the home side’s advantage shortly before half-time, converting from the penalty spot. Etim then increased Midtjylland’s lead three minutes after the restart, scoring in the 48th minute.

The forward is Midtjylland’s leading scorer in the Danish top flight this season, with six goals and three assists.

Lyngby continued to challenge for a way back into the match and reduced the deficit late on, but Midtjylland held on for the three points.

Okuaghare was introduced with four minutes remaining, replacing Kjell Watjen to mark his first appearance for the senior team.

The defensive midfielder joined Midtjylland from partner club FC Ebedei last month and initially began his career with the club’s U19 squad. He had made four appearances for the U19s in the Boys League before being named as an unused substitute for Midtjylland’s 2-1 home win over FC Copenhagen on October 11.

Sunday’s match was Okuaghare’s second first-team call-up. He took his opportunity when he came on in the closing stages of the victory over Lyngby.

Photo credit: fcm.dk