A brilliant performance by Nigerian duo Abiodun Ogunniyi and Abdulrahman Taiwo propelled FK Auda to a crucial 2-1 away victory over Cliftonville FC in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League second qualifying round tie.
The Latvian outfit, against the odds, emerged triumphant thanks to goals from the Nigerian stars, Footballrover reports.
The Latvian outfit, who progressed to this stage after a convincing 3-0 aggregate win over FB36 Torshavn, started brightly and took the lead in the 32nd minute through Ogunniyi, who converted a pass from Senegalese forward Mor Talla.
However, Cliftonville responded swiftly, equalising seven minutes later through Luke Conlan.
Both sides ended the first half with nothing to separate them, and they resumed the second period with the same momentum.
They both created chances but were unable to find a breakthrough.
It was not until the 77th minute that Auda regained the lead. Once again, Talla played a vital role, setting up Taiwo for the decisive goal.
Despite dominating possession with 54%, Cliftonville were unable to convert their chances, with Auda recording more shots on target (6-3).
The victory gives Auda a slender advantage heading into the second leg at the Skonto Stadium next week and in a strong position to progress to the next round.
However, before then, they have a domestic fixture against Jelgava in the Latvian Higher League on Sunday.
Ogunniyi and Taiwo have been instrumental in Auda’s European campaign so far, and their performances will be crucial as they look to secure a place in the next round.
Be the first to comment on "UCL: Nigerian Duo Abiodun Ogunniyi & Abdulrahman Taiwo Fire FK Auda to Away Win"