Nigerian forward Bamidele Yusuf is quickly becoming the man of the hour for Ferencváros.
Just few days after netting the winner in a 1-0 preseason victory over Qarabag, the 25-year-old stepped up on a bigger stage.
His masterclass performance in the UEFA Europa League first qualifying round proved decisive for the Hungarian giants.
Bamidele Yusuf Europa League Heroics Sink Vojvodina
Ferencváros secured a crucial 2-1 away victory against Vojvodina at the Stadion Karađorđe, thanks to Yusuf’s goal and an assist.
The Nigerian forward was a constant threat, driving his team forward when it mattered most. He has now racked up three goal involvements in his last two consecutive matches.
The visitors enjoyed a dream start, breaking the deadlock just eight minutes into the match. Yusuf was the provider, delivering a perfect pass to Kristoffer Zachariassen, who finished with absolute confidence.
Dramatic Finish Edges Ferencváros Closer to Qualification
Despite controlling the first half, Ferencváros suffered a major setback right before the interval.
Defender Toon Raemaekers accidentally turned the ball into his own net, gifting Vojvodina an equalizer. The teams went into the dugout locked at 1-1.
The Hungarian side dominated possession after the restart, relentlessly hunting for a winner.
Their patience paid off in the 86th minute when Yusuf latched onto Gabi Kanichowsky’s assist and fired home.
He was played through on a swift counterattack and surged into the box, where he showed great composure by gliding past his defender before bending a superb strike into the top-right corner beyond the helpless goalkeeper.
The goal carried extra significance for the Nigerian, who was facing his former club after spending a season and a half there before moving to Ferencváros.
In a show of respect for his old team, he chose not to celebrate after finding the net.
Ferencváros held firm defensively in the final minutes to take a vital advantage back to Budapest for the return leg.