Talented schoolboy of Nigerian descent Emerson Nwaneri made his UEFA Youth League debut on Wednesday afternoon as Arsenal U19s defeated Bayern Munich 4-2 at the Mangata Developments Stadium.

The 2010-born midfielder was recently added to Arsenal’s UEFA Youth League squad, paving the way for his inclusion in the matchday party.

Arsenal U19s coach David Horseman handed starts to Ife Ibrahim and Joshua Ogunnaike, while Emerson Nwaneri and Samuel Onyekachukwu were named among the substitutes.

Another teenage talent of Nigerian descent, Andre Harriman-Annous, was originally due to feature but withdrew at the last minute due to a minor injury.

With five minutes remaining, Emerson made his long-awaited bow, coming off the bench to replace Ceadach O’Neill.

Bayern opened the scoring in the 25th minute through Yll Gashi, but Max Dowman restored parity before goalkeeper Jack Porter produced a superb penalty save on the stroke of half-time.

Arsenal took control after the restart, with Kyran Thompson and O’Neill putting the hosts 3-1 ahead.

Although Bayern pulled one back, Dowman sealed the victory with a brilliant  effort deep into stoppage time.

Emerson Nwaneri is expected to sign a scholarship contract with Arsenal ahead of the 2026–27 season.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel