Nigerian forward Anthony Ujah announced his arrival on the European stage with a bang, scoring a goal and assisting the winner as Botev Plovdiv secured a narrow 2-1 victory over NK Maribor in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League qualifying first-round tie.
Ujah Makes Instant Impact
Playing at a packed Hristo Botev Stadium on Thursday evening, Botev Plovdiv wasted no time in taking control of the tie, Footballrover reports.
Ujah, a summer signing for the Bulgarian club, rose to the occasion in just the ninth minute, powerfully heading home a pinpoint cross from Ivelin Popov to put the hosts ahead.
Maribor Fights Back
However, Maribor refused to go down without a fight. Ten minutes later, they drew level through a well-taken right-footed shot from Pijus Sirvys, sending the tie into halftime with the score locked at 1-1.
Ujah Turns Provider
The second half saw both sides continue their attacking intent, but it was Botev Plovdiv who emerged victorious.
In the 74th minute, 33-year-old Nigerian forward Ujah turned provider, setting up debutant Nikola Iliev with a fantastic pass.
Iliev made no mistake, slotting the ball into the net with a composed right-footed finish.
Advantage Botev Plovdiv
This vital second goal proved to be the difference-maker, giving Botev Plovdiv a crucial advantage heading into the second leg at Maribor’s Ljudski vrt stadium next Thursday.
Ujah’s impressive performance has certainly set the tone for the tie, highlighting his attacking prowess after moving to Botev Plovdiv on a free transfer on July 1st.
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