September 19, (THEWILL) – Nigerian forward, Victor Olatunji, made an impressive debut in the 2024/2025 UEFA Champions League, helping Sparta Praha to a 3-0 win over RB Salzburg.
Playing at the Generali Arena, Olatunji scored a goal and provided an assist in a commanding performance that led Sparta to victory. The match marked Sparta’s return to the UCL after 19 years, with Olatunji playing a pivotal role in their success.
The 25-year-old scored Sparta’s second goal with a well-placed volley into the bottom-left corner, just before half-time. He capitalised on a clearance from teammate Filip Panák with a clinical finish. In the second half, he turned provider, assisting Qazim Laci’s goal to seal the 3-0 win.
This strong display put Sparta in a favourable position in the competition. Olatunji’s contributions made him the first Nigerian player to both score and assist on his UEFA Champions League debut. He also became the third African player to do this after Daniel Cousin and Serge Aurier. His performance earned him recognition not only for his goal and assist but also for his overall impact on the game, both offensively and defensively.
Sparta’s return to the UCL after nearly two decades is a major milestone, and Olatunji’s contributions were instrumental in their success. The Nigerian forward’s role in the team continues to grow, as he adapts to the higher demands of European football and raises his profile in the sport.
Olatunji’s UCL debut will be remembered as a landmark in his career. His ability to influence games at the highest level is becoming more evident, and he is poised for further success with the other two Victors (Osimhen and Boniface) in the forward line of the Super Eagles.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
