Nigerian stars Jesse Sekidika and Luqman Gilmore made headlines on Thursday night after delivering crucial assists for their respective teams in the UEFA Europa League and Europa Conference League qualification rounds.
While one battled in a thrilling six-goal draw, the other dominated in a convincing win to send his club into the next round, Footballrover reports.
Sekidika Sparks Sabah Baku’s Comeback in Six-Goal Thriller
At the Arena Petrol in Slovenia, Sekidika made an instant impact off the bench for Sabah Baku in their UEFA Europa League Qualification Round 1 second leg clash against NK Celje.
Trailing 2-1, the 29-year-old winger was introduced in the 59th minute to replace Khayal Aliyev.
Just four minutes later, Sekidika delivered a perfect assist for Joy-Lance Mickels to bring the game level at 2-2, showcasing his sharp vision and creative flair.
Despite his contribution, Sabah Baku eventually drew 3-3 with Celje. However, their earlier 3-2 first-leg loss meant they bowed out 6-5 on aggregate, bringing an end to their European journey.
Still, Jesse Sekidika’s performance stood out, offering hope for future continental campaigns.
Gilmore Guides Paide to Dominant Victory with Key Assist
In Estonia, Luqman Gilmore delivered a commanding performance to help Paide Linnameeskond seal a 4-1 home victory over Magpies from Gibraltar in the UEFA Conference League Qualification Round 1 second leg.
Playing the full 90 minutes at the Pärnu Rannastaadion, Gilmore showed great control in midfield and capped it with a fine assist.
With Paide already 2-0 up from goals by Martin Miller and Pa Corr, the Nigerian midfielder set up Corr’s second to make it 3-0 before Pa Abdou Cham added the fourth.
Thanks to that strong display, Paide advanced comfortably with a 7-3 aggregate win, having edged the first leg 3-2.
The 29-year-old Nigerian midfielder’s creativity and control in midfield played a key role in the result.
Both Sekidika and Gilmore showed why they remain valuable assets for their various teams.
But then, Sekidika’s brilliance wasn’t enough to save Sabah Baku, while Gilmore’s creative magic helped Paide cruise into the next round.
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