Super Eagles Invitee Makes History in Champions League

According to a report by The Punch on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, Super Eagles invitee Mubarak Suleiman has made history in the UEFA Champions League after becoming the first Nigerian teenager to start a match in the competition since Alex Iwobi achieved the feat in March 2016.

The 19-year-old midfielder started for Slavia Prague in their 2-2 draw against Fenerbahçe at the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium in Istanbul on Tuesday night.

Suleiman’s achievement ended a 10-year wait for a Nigerian teenager to start a Champions League match since Iwobi featured for Arsenal against Barcelona in the round of 16 in March 2016.

The Slavia Prague midfielder made his second appearance in the competition after making his debut against Sabah FK on October 13, when the Czech club suffered a 2-0 defeat in Azerbaijan.

Against Fenerbahçe, Suleiman delivered an encouraging performance, recording two key passes and six accurate passes into the final third before being substituted for Pavel Kacor in the 85th minute.

Slavia Prague recovered from a two-goal deficit to earn a valuable point away from home.

Fenerbahçe took an early lead through goals from Oğuz Aydın and Mason Greenwood within the opening 11 minutes.

Lukas Provod reduced the deficit in the 15th minute after Matteo Guendouzi misplaced a pass, before Kacor scored an acrobatic volley in the 90th minute to secure a 2-2 draw for the visitors.

Nigerian forward Emmanuel Ayaosi provided the cross for Kacor’s equalizer, which also marked the 20-year-old’s first senior goal for Slavia Prague.

Suleiman has recorded one goal and one assist in eight appearances across all competitions this season.

The youngster had been expected to represent the Super Eagles in their international friendly against Russia but withdrew from the squad before the encounter.

His latest milestone represents a significant step in his development as he continues to establish himself at club level and seeks another opportunity to represent Nigeria internationally.

Suleiman will now aim to build on his Champions League experience and maintain his progress as Slavia Prague continue their European campaign.

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