Super Eagles forward Chidera Ejuke was denied his first goal for Sevilla after a VAR review in their 2-0 loss to Girona at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium on Sunday, Soccernet.ng reports. Nigeria forward Ejuke was named in Sevilla’s lineup for their La Liga game while Kelechi Iheanacho started from the bench.
Los Nervionenses were yet to win any of their first three games of the campaign and were looking to claim thwir first three points of the season. But going against a Girona side that finished third in La Liga last season was always going to be a difficult proposition.
The game was quite balanced, but it was the visitors who opened the scoring early on through Ivan Martin in the 41st minute.
Just two minutes later, Chidera Ejuke thoight he had equalized after a perfectly worked goal- or so it seemed. Unfortunately, it was ruled out for offside after a VAR review.
If the goal had not been ruled out, Ejuke would have become the only Nigerian footballer to have scored for Sevilla.
Ejuke Denied a Historic Feat
The VAR review proved to be a turning point in the match, as it denied Ejuke the opportunity to etch his name in the history books of Sevilla. This was a significant moment for the Nigerian forward, who was hoping to make his mark in his new team. Had the goal stood, Ejuke would have become the first Nigerian player to score for Sevilla.
This incident highlights the growing importance of VAR in modern football. While it aims to ensure fair play and accuracy, its intervention can sometimes lead to controversial decisions that can drastically impact the outcome of a match.
Sevilla Struggle for a Comeback
Girona took their one-goal lead into the break, but Sevilla failed to present a solid fight early in the second half. Ejuke was quite lively as usual, as he tried to weave some magic from the left, but he was caged. Despite their home advantage, Los Nervionenses failed to score, allowing the game to drag on.
Girona Seal the Victory
Girona eventually capitalized in, as they scored against in the 73rd minute, courtesy of Abel Ruiz from the penalty spot. That was the final goal, as it ended 2-0 in favour of Girona after full time. Iheanacho was an unused substitute, while Ejuke played the entre fixture.
The loss leaves Sevilla winless in their first four league games, a worrying start to the season. The team will need to regroup and find their rhythm if they are to challenge for a European place this season. As for Ejuke, he will be hoping to overcome this setback and make a greater impact in the upcoming matches.
Looking Ahead: Can Ejuke Break the Goal Drought?
Ejuke's performance against Girona was a reminder of his talent and potential. Despite the goal being ruled out, he showed his ability to create chances and cause problems for the opposition defense. With a bit more luck and support from his teammates, he could soon break his goal drought for Sevilla.
The coming weeks will be crucial for Ejuke and Sevilla. Can Ejuke rediscover his scoring touch and help the team turn their season around? It will be interesting to watch how the Nigerian forward performs in the upcoming games.
