African players played leading roles during the second matchday of the Europa League, scoring decisive goals, inspiring comebacks and producing commanding defensive displays for their clubs.
Noah Sadiki, Jules Ahoka, Ernest Nuamah, Ibrahim Maza and Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal were among those to make a significant impact across Europe.
Sadiki delivers late for Sunderland
Noah Sadiki came off the bench to secure a valuable victory for Sunderland against Torreense.
The DR Congo international struck in the 90+2 minute, completing a dramatic turnaround and giving the Black Cats a 2-1 away win. His late finish made him one of the key figures in Sunderland’s success, after he had entered the game as a substitute.
Nuamah helps Lyon edge Crystal Palace
Ernest Nuamah was also on target as Olympique Lyonnais defeated Crystal Palace 3-2 in a closely contested match.
The Ghanaian winger scored Lyon’s second goal just before half-time, giving his side greater breathing space before the game developed into a tight contest. His pace and ability to make things happen in the final third provided an important attacking outlet for the French side.
Nuamah’s contribution helped Olympique Lyonnais maintain their advantage and complete the victory.
Maza adds the fourth for Leverkusen
Ibrahim Maza continued to underline his growing importance for Bayer Leverkusen by scoring in their emphatic 4-0 win against Lech Poznan.
The Algeria international netted the fourth goal of the evening, putting the result beyond doubt after Lech Poznan had been swept aside. His goal brought a successful night to a close for Bayer Leverkusen and further demonstrated the young player’s ability to contribute in European fixtures.
Ahoka sparks Sunderland comeback
Sadiki was not the only Congolese player to shine for Sunderland against Torreense. Jules Ahoka, aged 20, played a crucial role in changing the course of the match.
The midfielder equalised in the 67th minute, heading in a cross from Nordi Mukiele after positioning himself well inside the penalty area. The goal brought Sunderland level and gave the English side renewed belief before Sadiki’s winner in added time.
Together, the two Congolese players shaped Sunderland’s comeback and ensured the club left with all three points.
Ait Boudlal makes the difference for Rennes
Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal combined defensive solidity with a decisive contribution in Stade Rennais’ 2-1 victory over OFI Crete.
The Morocco defender scored the goal that ultimately separated the teams late in the match, while also making a major contribution at the other end of the pitch. He recorded seven interceptions, the best total in that category during the game.
His performance helped Stade Rennais secure an important win, with Ait Boudlal influencing the result both through his defensive work and his finishing.