Overlooked Super Eagles defender nets volley to ruin Wayne Rooney’s Plymouth debut

Former Akwa United star Olisa Ndah emerged as one of the standout performers as South African giants Orlando Pirates drew 2-2 with Wayne Rooney's Plymouth Argyle in a four-goal thriller.

Ndah, an unsung defender often overlooked for the Nigerian national team, stole the show with a stunning volley that put the Pirates ahead just before halftime.

The goal came as a sucker punch to Rooney, who was making his debut as Plymouth's new manager.

The match started cagily, with both teams feeling each other out. Argyle's new signing, former Nigerian youth international Muhamed Tijani, who recently joined the Championship side, debuted for Rooney's side, looking to impress the legendary striker-turned-manager.

As the first half wore on, the game burst into life in the first five minutes of the first 45. Pirates took the lead with a scrappy goal from a low cross, but Plymouth hit back immediately through Issaka, who slotted home the rebound after Waine's effort was blocked.

Just when it seemed the sides would go into the break level, up stepped Ndah. The defender timed his run perfectly to volley home from a corner, leaving Rooney's Plymouth players shell-shocked.

The second half saw more drama, with Plymouth missing a penalty before Argyle's latest signing, Callum Wright, came off the bench to level the scores with a well-taken finish.

Despite the disappointment of conceding the lead twice, Ndah and Tijani can be proud of their contributions.

For Ndah, it was a chance to showcase his talents on the big stage and prove he deserves more recognition. Tijani, meanwhile, will have been eager to impress Rooney and stake his claim for a regular spot.

In the end, it was a thrilling encounter that left both sets of fans entertained. Ndah's moment of magic may have spoiled Rooney's debut, but the game served as a reminder that there are always unsung heroes waiting in the wings to make their mark.