Ibrahim Olawoyin’s long-awaited return to the score sheet has ignited both his personal form and Rizespor’s Turkish Super Lig campaign.
After a frustrating 57-day goal drought, the 27-year-old Nigerian international delivered an all-around performance to secure a vital 3-2 win over Demirspor, Footballrover reports.
Olawoyin not only ended his barren run but also contributed with an assist, reigniting his team’s momentum.
Ibrahim Olawoyin’s 57-day goal drought finally ends
The Super Eagles forward had not been involved in a goal since December 1, 2024, when he last provided an assist in Rizespor’s 3-0 win over Kayserispor.
Prior to this, his last goal came on November 9, 2024, in a 3-1 win over Trabzonspor.
However, against Demirspor, Olawoyin opened the scoring in the 30th minute and then played a crucial role in Ali Sowe’s second-half strike.
His early goal provided Rizespor with a valuable first-half lead, which they held onto despite a spirited comeback from the visitors.
Rizespor’s crucial 3-2 win and Olawoyin’s impact
Following the break, Olawoyin’s assist to Sowe doubled Rizespor’s advantage.
Although Demirspor responded with a goal in the 52nd minute, Rizespor regained their two-goal lead when Rachid Ghezzal converted a penalty in the 69th minute.
Demirspor’s late goal in the 83rd minute set up a nervy finish. After 89 minutes of action, Ibrahim Olawoyin made way for Samet Akaydin.
Despite a golden chance to make it 4-2, Vaclav Jurecka missed a penalty, but the match ended with Rizespor holding firm to snatch the victory and all three points.
With this victory, Rizespor bounced back from a recent 2-0 defeat to Basaksehir and climbed to 8th place in the standings with 27 points.
Olawoyin’s performance is a timely boost as they look ahead to their next fixture against Fenerbahce.
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