Nigeria Super Eagles midfielder Olawoyin Ibrahim proved to be the inspiration in his club Rizespor’s remarkable comeback win against third-place Samsunspor.
Nigeria Super Eagles midfielder Ibrahim Olawoyin played a crucial role in Rizespor’s thrilling 3-2 comeback victory against Samsunspor on Saturday evening.
Despite his initial goal being ruled as an own goal, Ibrahim’s contributions were decisive in securing the win, marking an important turnaround for Rizespor after a series of narrow defeats.
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In an exclusive interview with Pulse Sports Nigeria, Ibrahim reflected on the goal, which would have been his first in three matches for Rizespor.
“Nothing I can do about it once the referee credits the goal as own goal. The important thing for me is the goal still counts for us in the victory so I’ll keep working hard to score more goals for my team.”
Ibrahim Olawoyin moments after the five-goal thriller.
Olawoyin’s determination to contribute positively to his team’s success was evident throughout the game.
The match began poorly for Rizespor, who found themselves two goals down at halftime. An own goal by Samet Akaydin put Samsunspor ahead in the 23rd minute, followed by Emre Kilinc doubling their lead just before the break.
Olawoyin kicked off the comeback trail for Rizespor with that forced own goal.
However, Rizespor rallied in the second half. Ibrahim’s deflected shot led to a lifeline when Lubomir Satka inadvertently scored an own goal, bringing Rizespor back into contention.
Ibrahim expressed his joy at the team’s performance, saying, “I was really happy because our last three games were lost narrowly and winning a derby game against a rival team and one of the best in the league currently vying for Europe.”
The comeback continued as Ali Sowe equalised in the 86th minute, and just two minutes later, Ibrahim turned provider, assisting Altin Zeqiri for the winning goal.
“It wasn’t an easy victory considering the harsh weather conditions, and coming from two goals deficit to win,” he added. “I give thanks to God and I hope to help my team win more games ahead.”
A good day at the office for the Super Eagles star Olawoyin.
This impressive display has further solidified Ibrahim’s reputation in the Turkish Super Lig as he aims for a recall to the national by new Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Rizespor’s victory not only boosts their morale but also positions them favourably in their quest to climb higher on the Lig table after a challenging start to the season.
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