- Although Atletico Madrid began the night as favourites
- The visitors struck first after Julian Alvarez calmly converted a penalty
- Onyedika turned provider in the closing stages, delivering the assist for Christos Tzolis to score
Nigerian internationals Raphael Onyedika and Ademola Lookman were both on target as Club Brugge and Atletico Madrid battled to an electrifying 3-3 draw in their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first-leg encounter on Wednesday.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that both players, key figures for their sides this season, were named in the starting line-ups for the highly anticipated clash.
EDITOR’S PICK
- Grand Wedding Reception: Halimot, Saheed Mark Their Union
- Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA Celebrates Former Chairman, Hon. Segun Adetola, on Birthday
- Sanwo-Olu Flags Off Free Eye Screening for 1,000 Lagos Police Officers
Although Atletico Madrid began the night as favourites, the Belgian champions quickly showed they would not be overawed.
The visitors struck first after Julian Alvarez calmly converted a penalty, awarded for a handball by Joaquin Seys. Despite the setback, Brugge responded positively, pushing forward in search of an equaliser.
Onyedika was lively in midfield, missing an early chance before testing goalkeeper Jan Oblak with a powerful long-range drive midway through the first half.
Just before the interval, Atletico doubled their advantage. A clever touch from Antoine Griezmann set up Lookman, who finished from close range to make it 2-0 heading into halftime.
However, the momentum shifted after the restart. Brugge reduced the deficit in the 52nd minute when Onyedika reacted quickest to a loose ball inside the box following a corner.
The hosts continued to press and were rewarded eight minutes later as Nicolo Tresoldi fired home to bring the game level.
With Atletico struggling to regain control, manager Diego Simeone replaced Lookman with Alex Baena in a tactical adjustment.
The Spanish side briefly restored their lead in the 79th minute, but Brugge refused to concede defeat.
Dramatically, Onyedika turned provider in the closing stages, delivering the assist for Christos Tzolis to score a late equaliser in the 89th minute and seal a thrilling stalemate ahead of the return leg.
FURTHER READING
