Nwankwo: Super Eagles-eligible defender scores winning goal for newly-promoted LALIGA side

Spanish born defender of Nigerian descent John Nwankwo scored the winning goal for Elche in their LALIGA clash against Celta Vigo.

The 24-year-old's well taken shot from inside the area in the 68th minute was the winning strike in Elche's 2-1 victory; a continuation of their high-flying start since returning to LALIGA which now has them placed 4th on the log.

Elche took the lead through André Silva's goal, but Celta equalised courtesy of Borja Iglesias. Ionuț Radu made crucial saves, including a penalty stop from Rafa Mir, to keep Celta in the game. 

However, Elche eventually took the lead when Germán Valera set up John Nwankwo to score. Celta failed to create scoring chances and lost the match.. 

Elche remain unbeaten in eight straight home games, defying pre-season expectations and climbing high in the table. Celta, on the other hand, still find themselves just above the relegation zone and winless in the 2025/26 season.

John Chetauya Nwankwo Donald Okeh was born on 25 September 2000 in Murcia, Spain. He is of Spanish nationality, but very importantly, he is also of Nigerian heritage, with his family having emigrated from Nigeria. Spanish sources often describe him as “hispano-nigeriano” or of Nigerian origin living and growing up in Spain. 

John joined Elche in 2020, initially with their reserve/youth teams, coming from Villarreal’s academy. He debuted for the first team in the 2020-21 season, making appearances in both the Copa del Rey and LaLiga. Over time he has established himself more regularly, alternating between central defence and a defensive midfield role. 

In local interviews, he speaks openly about his family and how their Nigerian background has shaped him, mentioning that arriving in Spain to pursue better opportunities is part of his personal story. 

Though born and raised in Spain, John’s dual identity means he is eligible for both Spanish and Nigerian national sides. As of now, he has not made a senior international debut for either country. 

His progression in club football, especially with Elche now playing in the top flight, means that both national federations may have reason to monitor him. A Super Eagles appearance could be in his near future, given the paucity of options available in that position.