Genoa's Ekhator becomes second youngest scorer Europe's top 5 leagues, after Barcelona prodigy

Italian-born Nigerian striker Jeff Ekhator came off the bench to score his first ever goal in the Serie A as Genoa suffered a 5-1 defeat at the hands of Atalanta at the Gewiss Stadium on Saturday evening.

Born in Genova, Ekhator played in his fifth game in the Italian top flight against the Nerazzurri, with all the appearances coming off the bench. 

The 17-year-old was promoted to Genoa's first team following his outstanding performances for the youth teams, tallying 52 goal involvements (32 goals, 20 assists) in 73 matches. 

He impressed Genoa's first team coach Alberto Gilardino during preparations for the 2024-2025 season.

Thanks to Mateo Retegui's hat-trick and additional goals by Éderson and Marten de Roon, Atalanta established an unassailable 5-0 lead with ten minutes remaining.

Ekhator, who entered the game as a substitute in the 67th minute as replacement for Italy international Andrea Pinamonti, pulled one back in the 83rd minute with a long-range effort. 

Aged 17 years and 329 days today, he is the second youngest player to score in the top five European leagues in the 2024-2025 season, only behind Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal who was aged 17 years and 42 days when he found the net against Athletic Bilbao on matchday two in La Liga.

Jeff Ekhator has three caps for Italy at U19 level and has been named in Gli Azzurrini squad for the double-header against Wales next week.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

Photo Credit: genoacfc.it

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