Nigerian forward Chidera Ejuke was in action for Sevilla as they suffered a 4-1 defeat to Barcelona in their La Liga clash on Sunday.
Sevilla welcomed Barcelona for the second leg of their league encounter, hoping to avoid another heavy loss after their 5-0 defeat in the first fixture, a match in which Ejuke sustained a hamstring injury.
Barcelona dominated from the start, taking the lead in just seven minutes through Robert Lewandowski.
However, Sevilla responded almost immediately, with Ruben Vargas finishing off a well-worked move to level the score.
Fermin Lopez celebrates his goal with teammates Raphinha and Alejandro Balde. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
Saul burst through the Barcelona defence and squared the ball for Vargas, who slotted home with ease.
The score remained 1-1 at halftime, but Barcelona came out firing in the second half.
Fermin Lopez and Raphinha struck within the first ten minutes of the restart, giving the visitors a commanding 3-1 lead.
Sevilla had a glimmer of hope when Lopez was sent off for a reckless challenge, reducing Barcelona to ten men. However, they failed to capitalize on the advantage.
Ejuke was introduced in the 67th minute, replacing Vargas, but he struggled to make an impact.
Known for his dribbling ability, the Nigerian found himself on the receiving end, with Lamine Yamal and Jules Koundé repeatedly getting the better of him.
Instead of a Sevilla comeback, Barcelona put the game beyond doubt in the closing minutes, as Eric García headed in their fourth goal.
Ejuke’s return from a three-month injury layoff has been challenging, as he is yet to regain his best form.
However, with time, he could improve and regain his sharpness.
Meanwhile, Bayer Leverkusen star Victor Boniface was in attendance to support his compatriot.
Before kickoff, Boniface shared a video from the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, and after the game, he posted a picture with Ejuke and their agents.
Victor Boniface shows up for Chidera Ejuke during the LaLiga match between Sevilla and FC Barcelona in Seville. Photo | IG
With time, Ejuke will be hoping to shake off his struggles and rediscover his form as Sevilla continues their campaign.
