Super Eagles star sends Sevilla top of LALIGA after shocking decision changed his fortunes

Super Eagles star Chidera Ejuke marked his return among the ranks at Sevilla with a stunning second-half goal, sealing a 3-1 LALIGA victory over ten-man Athletic Club at San Mamés on Saturday afternoon.

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Ejuke’s exquisite 50th-minute chip over Spain international Unai Simón capped an improbable redemption arc for the 28-year-old winger. 

Just days prior, the former CSKA Moscow winger was on the verge of an exit, having been excluded from the final leg of Sevilla's pre-season tour while negotiations with Belgian side Anderlecht took place. 

Following a breakdown in wage terms and Sevilla’s failed bid for Real Zaragoza winger Adrián Liso, the Andalusian club executed a u-turn to reinstate the Super Eagles star.

His strike off the bench continues a proud Nigerian modern legacy at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, following in the footsteps of compatriot Akor Adams, whose vital goals saved Sevilla's top-flight status last season before his departure earlier this summer.

The match turned in Sevilla’s favour early in the opening period when Athletic Club defender Yuri Berchiche received a straight red card in the 11th minute for bringing down Miguel Sierra on the edge of the box.

Oso capitalised on the numerical advantage four minutes later, seizing on a loose ball in the penalty area to slot past Simón.

Sevilla took the advantage into the break and returned unsated. Ejuke, introduced at halftime for Sierra, collected a pass from Isaac Romero, drove into the box, and deftly lifted the ball into the net to double the lead.

Isaac Romero put the result virtually beyond reach with a composed finish to make it 3-0. Aitor Paredes pulled a goal back for Athletic Club with twenty minutes remaining, but Edin Terzić's side could not mount a late comeback. 

The victory moved Sevilla to the top of the LALIGA table with a perfect six points from their opening two matches, following their 2-1 opening-day win over Rayo Vallecano.

For Athletic Club, the defeat leaves them without a point in two fixtures as new manager Edin Terzić struggles to find early cohesion ahead of the upcoming international break.