Yusuf scores first Champions League goal, makes Antwerp coach not to regret decision to hand him start

Belgian champions Antwerp remain without a point in the halfway stage of the UEFA Champions League after losing 4-1 to Porto in a matchday three clash at the Bosuilstadion (Deurne) on Wednesday night.

Just as was suggested in the build-up to the game, the absence of injured Mandela Keita paved the way for Nigerian central midfielder Alhassan Yusuf to make his full Champions League debut, 

Yusuf made Mark van Bommel not to regret his decision to name him in the starting lineup as he broke the deadlock for the hosts in the 37th minute when he swept the ball into the far corner from Janssen's deflected cross. 

It was his first goal in the Champions League in what was his third appearance. 

Sérgio Conceição's team turned it around dramatically and decisively having trailed by the interval. 

With just 40 seconds of the second half played, Porto restored parity through Evanilson, whose shot deflected in past the Antwerp goalkeeper. 

Stephen Eustáquio's 54th minute strike had Porto on top before Evanilson, who entered the game as a substitute due to an injury to Wendell, took over with two more goals of his own. 

Super Eagles winger Chidera Ejuke, on loan to Antwerp from CKSA Moscow and yet to make his starting debut for the Pro League side, came on for his Champions League debut in the 78th minute and there was also a cameo for Lagos-born striker George Ilenikhena .

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

Photo Credit: uefa.com

Copyright ANS

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com