Southampton’s quest for Premier League promotion hit a snag as they succumbed to a 2-1 defeat against Cardiff City in the EFL Championship with Super Eagles star Joe Aribo scoring their only goal.
Despite Joe Aribo’s impressive first-half goal, the Saints failed to maintain their lead as Cardiff City staged a remarkable comeback in the second half, Footballrover reports.
Aribo, who has been a crucial player for Southampton since his return from the Africa Cup of Nations, scored in the 12th minute, but the team’s dominance only yielded a slim 1-0 halftime lead.
Cardiff City’s substitute Famara Diedhiou equalized in the second half, capitalising on Southampton’s missed chances, and youngster Cian Ashford sealed the win with a deflected shot in injury time.
This leaves Southampton five points off the automatic promotion spots with three games remaining.
The 27-year-old Nigerian midfielder, who played for 73 minutes and managed three shots, including one on target, has now scored four goals and provided one assist in 32 appearances this season.
The defeat raises concerns about Southampton’s promotion prospects and Aribo’s future at the club, especially with Galatasaray expressing strong interest in the Nigerian midfielder.
If Southampton fails to secure promotion, they may lose Aribo in the upcoming transfer window.
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