Samuel Akere has turned out to be Botev Plovdiv’s saving grace once again, scoring in his third consecutive game to ensure a crucial point for his team in their 1-1 draw against Hebar 1918 on Sunday.

The Nigerian forward’s header at the stroke of halftime levelled the game after an own goal from Botev’s defender had given the visitors an early advantage, Footballrover reports.

While the 20-year-old winger was on the scoresheet, his compatriot Ehije Ukaki was introduced after the first half break, replacing Aleksa Maras.

Samuel Akere scores in third consecutive game to rescue Botev Plovdiv

Akere’s consistency has been remarkable. With this goal, he has now found the net in three straight matches, bringing his season tally to five goals across all competitions.

His timely intervention kept Botev Plovdiv’s hopes alive for a top-three finish, even though they have now gone eight games without a win—five defeats and three draws.

A vital goal in a tense battle

Botev Plovdiv entered the match determined to bounce back after a narrow 3-2 loss to Ludogorets in their last outing, a game that saw Akere score the opening goal of the game.

However, they found themselves on the back foot when Yanis Karabelyov’s own goal handed the visitors the lead after 33 minutes of gameplay.

With halftime approaching, Akere’s powerful header restored balance to the game, and both teams struggled to break the deadlock in the second half.

Akere was substituted in the second half in order to avoid a second yellow card.

The Nigerian star was subbed off 16 minutes into the second period of the game, and Nikola Iliev took his place, but neither side could find the decisive goal.

Despite the result, Botev Plovdiv remains in third place on the Bulgarian Parva Liga table with 41 points, with their next challenge set against Spartak Varna.

As long as Samuel Akere continues his goal-scoring form, the team’s push for a top finish could still be on track.

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Last Updated on February 9, 2025 11:53 pm by Sir Kris