Nigerian striker Chrisantus Uche had a dream start to his La Liga career, scoring on his debut to help Getafe salvage a crucial 1-1 draw against Athletic Bilbao at the intimidating San Mamés stadium.
The highly-rated forward, who joined Getafe during the summer transfer window, was handed a starting role by manager José Bordalás for the season opener, Footballrover reports.
And he repaid the faith shown in him with a towering header from a corner kick that rescued his side from a potential defeat.
Athletic Club and Getafe kicked off their La Liga campaigns with a familiar tune: a draw.
It was the fifth stalemate in their last six meetings, a trend that’s become as predictable as the Nigerian weather.
Riding high after their Copa del Rey triumph and impressive league finish, Athletic were the expected party starters in front of their home fans.
But it was Getafe’s Carles Pérez who almost stole the show early on, narrowly missing the target with a sizzling effort.
The Basques eventually found their rhythm, with Oihan Sancet’s delightful curled effort from distance breaking the deadlock.
The first half ended with Getafe trailing, but they emerged from the tunnel with renewed strength and inspiring pep talk.
Barely 19 minutes into the second period of the game, the 21-year-old Nigerian restored parity for the visitors.
Chrisantus Uche wasn’t to be denied; he rose highest to head home Luis Milla’s corner to bring Getafe back into the game.
Athletic pressed for a winner, with Nico Williams’ thunderous shot brilliantly saved by David Soria.
Yuri Berchiche almost snatched a late victory, but his header sailed just wide, and it ended 1-1 after the final whistle.
Ernesto Valverde’s side have now failed to win their opening La Liga match for five consecutive seasons.
Meanwhile, José Bordalás’ Getafe is still searching for a win against Athletic; their drought is now stretching back to 2019/20.
Uche became the third Nigerian player to play for Getafe, after Peter Etebo and Ikechukwu Uche, when he signed a four-year contract from AD Ceuta.
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