Nigeria-eligible right back Habeeb Ogunneye captained Manchester United U21s to a thrilling 4–2 victory over Everton in the Premier League 2 playoffs on Friday night at Leigh Sports Village.
Ogunneye, who played the full 90 minutes, marshalled a spirited comeback after United twice fell behind to goals from Everton’s Martin Sherif. Ethan Wheatley equalised on both occasions before Tyler Fletcher gave United the lead in the 71st minute. Sékou Koné sealed the win six minutes from time with a stunning strike from distance.
Spanish-Nigerian striker Victor Musa, currently in red hot form, was an unused substitute for United. Ogunneye, a standout performer this season with 15 PL2 appearances and an assist, has trained multiple times with United’s first team and was part of their Europa League squad that travelled to Fenerbahçe.
The Red Devils will now face the winner of the West Ham vs Sunderland match in the playoff quarterfinals.
Editorial
Habeeb Ogunneye’s leadership role at Manchester United’s U21 side is a clear sign that Nigerian football’s next generation is in safe hands. At a time when European clubs are placing more trust in homegrown talents, Ogunneye’s calm presence and resilience stand out like a beacon.
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His ability to captain such a high-pressure comeback says a lot about his mental strength an area often cited as lacking in young players. Ogunneye is not just fighting for a place in Manchester United’s senior squad; he’s carving out a case for future Super Eagles contention.
With Nigeria actively scouting for full-backs capable of combining defensive solidity with attacking prowess, the time is ripe for the NFF to begin meaningful engagement with him. If nurtured well, Ogunneye could become a fixture in Nigerian football for years to come.
The message to Nigerian football authorities is clear: talents like Ogunneye aren’t just Europe’s future they are ours too.
Did You Know?
- Habeeb Ogunneye has already featured in the UEFA Youth League and the EFL Trophy for Manchester United this season.
- Manchester United’s academy has produced several Premier League stars, including Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay, and Mason Greenwood.
- The Premier League 2 is the top tier of U23 football in England, designed to bridge the gap between youth and senior football.
- Martin Sherif, who scored twice against United, is one of Everton’s brightest academy prospects and has represented England at youth level.
- Victor Musa, an unused substitute, is eligible to play for both Nigeria and Spain at international level.
