By Saka Bashir Adegboyega (SIWES Student, Kwara State University)
In a commanding 4-0 win against Union Berlin, Leverkusen’s Nathan Tella, newly enlisted in the Super Eagles squad, celebrated his national call-up by scoring his first Bundesliga goal. Tella, acquired from Southampton in the summer, emerged from the shadow of Jonas Hoffmann, delivering a standout performance.
Facing a winless streak since September, Union Berlin struggled against a formidable Leverkusen side. The scoring opened in the 23rd minute when Spanish full-back Alex Grimaldo unleashed a remarkable shot from outside the box.
Despite efforts from Victor Boniface and Florian Wirtz, Union Berlin’s goalkeeper Frederik Ronnow thwarted further goals. In the second half, Ivorian center-back Odilon Kossounou doubled the lead with a powerful header from Hoffmann’s corner.
Grimaldo turned provider for the third goal, delivering a corner met by Jonathan Tah. Tella’s impactful entry in the 81st minute saw him replace Hoffmann, and within two minutes, he initiated a counter-attack from a free-kick opportunity, ultimately securing his first Bundesliga goal by connecting with Boniface.
Wirtz played a key role, setting up Tella after a sequence of quick passes involving Amine Adli. Tella, faced with the choice to score or assist, opted for the latter, linking up with Boniface and sealing his memorable moment.
For Nigerian football enthusiasts, Tella’s addition to the Super Eagles’ front line sparks excitement and optimism both domestically and internationally.
