Joshua Ogunnaike scores but Arsenal U19s lose 3-2 to Lille in UEFA Youth League

Nigeria-eligible defender Joshua Ogunnaike scored for Arsenal U19s, but the young Gunners were beaten 3-2 by Lille in the UEFA Youth League at Meadow Park.

Theo Odaji Ukueku also made his Arsenal debut in the competition, coming on with 14 minutes remaining as the hosts pushed for an equaliser.

Lille took the lead through Ismael Camara before Arsenal levelled in the 28th minute.

Ogunnaike finished a well-constructed move after Emerson Nwaneri found him in space. The 18-year-old defender then struck a powerful shot beyond the Lille goalkeeper to bring Arsenal back into the contest.

The visitors regained the initiative before half-time, however. Yeli Traore converted a penalty before Saad Boussadia added a third goal, leaving Lille with a 3-1 advantage at the interval.

Arsenal showed greater attacking intent after the break and were rewarded 12 minutes into the second half when Elijah Upson reduced the deficit.

The goal gave Arsenal renewed momentum, but Lille held on as the home side searched for a third goal.

Ukueku replaced Mylo Bernard with 14 minutes left to make his UEFA Youth League debut for Arsenal U19s.

A number of other Nigeria-eligible players featured for Arsenal, including Ifeoluwa Ibrahim, Hakeem Abubakar, Emerson Nwaneri and Andre Harriman-Annous.

The match further showcased the Nigerian talent in Arsenal’s youth ranks, although Lille left Meadow Park with all three points.