Chido Obi Nets Brace but United Held in Late PL2 Drama

Manchester United’s rising talent, Chido Obi, showcased his sharp finishing in a thrilling Premier League 2 encounter against Nottingham Forest on Monday night. The 17 year old forward, who joined United from Arsenal last summer, scored twice, but his efforts weren’t enough as the Red Devils let a two-goal lead slip in the final minutes of the match, ending in a 3-3 draw.

Obi was joined in the starting lineup by Habeeb Ogunneye, another player of Nigerian descent. The match at Leigh Sports Village began with a quick opener from Bendito Mantato in the third minute. Nottingham Forest replied on the 26th through Zyan Blake. Obi restored United’s advantage just before half-time with a close-range finish.

Three minutes after the restart, the Danish-Nigerian striker rifled a low shot into the bottom corner to give United a 3-1 cushion. However, defensive lapses cost them dearly as Kyle McAdam and Adam Berry found the net in the final ten minutes to level the score.

Obi’s two goals bring his season tally to 17 across all competitions. The young forward has already made four senior appearances for United in 2025, including outings in the FA Cup and Premier League. Though he recently returned from international duty with Denmark’s U21 side, he hasn’t featured for United’s first team since then, although he was on the bench for their derby clash with Manchester City.

The teenager won’t be available for United’s Europa League quarterfinal against Lyon on Thursday as he is not registered for the competition.

Editorial

We must take a moment to marvel at Chido Obi’s steady rise in the ranks of English football. At just 17, he is already proving himself as one of the most promising young forwards in the Premier League 2, and his recent brace is yet another reminder of his capabilities. It is not often that a player this young delivers with such maturity in front of goal, and yet Obi makes it seem routine.

This game, while ending in a draw, was more than just a scoreline. It was a showcase of how raw talent and disciplined development can turn a schoolboy footballer into a senior squad contender within a season. Obi’s impact since arriving from Arsenal has been palpable, and every touch, every sprint, and every shot he makes now carries weight.

Still, we must acknowledge the fragility of young teams, as the late collapse in defence once again exposed. Leading 3-1, United should have seen the match through. These lapses highlight the importance of not just attacking flair but defensive concentration—an area the coaching staff must urgently address.

As for Obi, his journey is only beginning. Though ineligible for the Europa League, his presence on the fringes of the senior squad speaks volumes. We believe his time will come sooner than many expect. If Manchester United continues to manage him wisely, he could become one of their most valuable assets—not just in talent but in spirit.

Let’s back players like Obi, who represent both potential and perseverance. The future isn’t waiting—it’s already warming up on the touchline.

Did You Know?

1. Chido Obi was part of Arsenal’s Hale End academy before moving to Manchester United in mid-2024.
2. Premier League 2 was originally the Under-21 league but now allows a limited number of overage players to feature.
3. Obi made his senior Manchester United debut in the FA Cup, just two months after turning 17.
4. Leigh Sports Village, United’s development ground, also serves as the home stadium for Manchester United Women.
5. Nigeria has produced over 30 Premier League debutants since the competition’s inception in 1992.