Nwakaeme’s Spectacular Strike Leads Hapoel to Victory in UCL Play-offs

Nigerian forward Anthony Nwakaeme showcased his prowess on the European stage, scoring a remarkable goal in the 12th minute to secure a 2-1 victory for Hapoel Be’er Sheva against Maribor in the UEFA Champions League play-offs. The electrifying match unfolded at the Yaakov Turner Toto Stadium in Israel on Wednesday night.

In a fiercely contested encounter, Marcos Tavares opened the scoring for Maribor in the 10th minute, only to be swiftly countered by Nwakaeme’s breathtaking strike from the edge of the Maribor ’18’. The goal left spectators, including former England and Barcelona striker Gary Lineker, in awe of the Nigerian’s skill and precision. Shir Tzedek further solidified Hapoel’s lead just before half-time with a successful penalty.

Super Eagles midfielder John Ogu, a stalwart presence for Hapoel, demonstrated exceptional form, contributing significantly to the team’s resolute performance. Both Nigerians displayed their prowess for the entire 90-minute duration.

Meanwhile, at the Stadio San Paulo in Naples, Italian side Napoli secured a 2-0 victory against nine-man French Ligue 1 team, Nice. Dries Mertens opened the scoring for Napoli in the 13th minute, and the lead was doubled in the 70th minute through Jorge Luiz (Jorginho) after Mertens was fouled in the penalty area.

In Greece, former Super Eagles striker Emmanuel Emenike was conspicuously absent from Olympiakos’ Champions League qualifier against Croatian side Rijeka at the Stadio Georgios Karaiskáki, where the Greek champions suffered a 2-1 defeat.

Elsewhere, Celtic made an emphatic statement with a 5-0 triumph over Astana in the first leg of their play-off at Celtic Park, placing them on the brink of securing a coveted spot in the Champions League group stages.