Ibrahim Olawoyin delivered when it mattered most, stepping up with a clutch goal to power Rizespor to a crucial 3-1 win over Alanyaspor in the Turkish Super Lig.
The Nigerian midfielder, back in the starting lineup after being benched in their previous match, made his mark in the 85th minute, capping off a dominant display at the Çaykur Didi Stadyumu.
Rizespor’s comeback triumph: A game of twists and turns
The match began with a tense, goalless first half before Rachid Ghezzal ignited the contest, putting Rizespor ahead just two minutes into the second half.
However, Alanyaspor quickly responded, with Andraz Sporar converting from the penalty spot in the 65th minute to level the score.
Rizespor refused to back down, and just six minutes later, Ali Sowe struck to restore their lead.
With the home fans roaring in support, Olawoyin sealed the deal in the 85th minute, driving home his third goal of the season with his only shot of the match.
The 27-year-old, who played 89 minutes, now boasts six assists in 21 league appearances.
A bitter-sweet moment for Ibrahim Olawoyin
While Olawoyin’s impact helped Rizespor climb to eighth place on the Super Lig table with 33 points—three ahead of Alanyaspor—his joy was slightly dampened by a late booking, ruling him out of their next match against Antalyaspor.
His compatriot, Babajide David Akintola, also contributed to the victory before being substituted in the 73rd minute.
With momentum on their side, Rizespor will look to build on this performance in their upcoming fixtures, though they’ll have to do it without their Nigerian talisman for the next round.
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