Nigerian defender Zaidu Sanusi delivered a decisive performance on Monday night, scoring an important late goal to seal FC Porto’s commanding 4-0 victory over Arouca in their Liga Portugal Round 7 clash.
The 28-year-old, now in his sixth season with Porto, came off the bench in the 69th minute to replace Francisco Moura, Footballrover reports.
Zaidu Sanusi’s Impactful Cameo Seals Porto’s Seventh Straight Win
Just 16 minutes later, he made his mark, calmly slotting home Porto’s fourth goal at the Estádio Municipal de Arouca — his first of the season in seven appearances, adding to the single assist he already has.
Sanusi’s impact went beyond the goal. In just 21 minutes on the pitch, the Nigerian international—who last featured for the Super Eagles in 2023—had only seven touches but made them count.
He won 100% of his ground duels, completed 75% of his passes, and registered two ball recoveries, highlighting his efficiency.
Porto wasted little time asserting themselves, opening the scoring in the 12th minute. Victor Froholdt teed up Samuel Agbehowa, who calmly rolled the ball past goalkeeper João Valido to make it 1-0.
The visitors were, however, dealt a blow two minutes after the restart when Martim Fernandes was shown a second yellow card — seemingly unaware he had already been booked — leaving Porto with 10 men.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, the champions stayed on the front foot. Just three minutes later, Pepê slipped a pass into the box for Deniz Gul, who fired into the left side of the net to double the lead.
On the hour mark, Borja Sainz threaded a precise pass to Francisco Moura, who made no mistake, drilling his shot into the bottom-right corner to make it 3-0.
Porto Stay Top as Europa League Clash Looms
Sanusi then capped the performance in the 85th minute, latching onto a pass from Alberto Costa and showing excellent composure to slot the ball into the bottom-left corner, completing the rout.
The win stretched Porto’s perfect start to the season, making it seven straight victories and moving them three points clear at the top of the table.
With momentum firmly on their side, Francesco Farioli’s men will head into their Europa League clash against FK Crvena Zvezda brimming with confidence.
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