Congolese defender Emmanuel Longelo registers first assist for Motherwell in draw with Dundee
Emmanuel Longelo marked his first assist for Motherwell as the Scottish Premiership side played out a 1-1 draw away to Dundee FC on Matchday Five.
The 23-year-old Congolese left-back, who joined Motherwell earlier this season after leaving Birmingham City, played a key role in his team’s performance, setting up their only goal of the contest.
His contribution helped the visitors secure a valuable point on the road, even if the result extended their run of stalemates in the league.
Motherwell struck first in the 33rd minute when Longelo surged down the left flank and delivered a precise ball into the penalty area, which was converted to give the visitors the lead.
The assist was a milestone for the defender, who has already made an impressive start to life in Scotland, having scored four goals in all competitions from his defensive position.
His attacking impact has quickly made him a central figure in Stuart Kettlewell’s side.
Despite taking the lead, Motherwell were unable to hold on. Dundee pressed for a way back into the match and eventually found an equaliser in the second half.
The game ended level, leaving both sides to reflect on missed opportunities. For Motherwell, the result marked their fifth consecutive draw, a sequence that underlines their resilience but also highlights the difficulty they are having in turning positive performances into victories.
Longelo’s growing influence will, however, be a source of encouragement for the club. Known for his energy, pace, and ability to contribute in attack, the Congolese defender has added a new dimension to Motherwell’s play on the left side.
His early-season form suggests he could be pivotal in the club’s efforts to climb higher up the table.
Motherwell currently sit sixth in the standings with five points from their opening five games. While avoiding defeat has been positive, their lack of wins is beginning to cause concern.
Drawing too many matches has stalled their progress, and the coaching staff have stressed the need for sharper finishing and greater concentration at key moments to secure full points.
Attention now turns to a demanding run of fixtures. Motherwell will face Aberdeen twice in quick succession, beginning with a Scottish League Cup quarter-final clash on Saturday, 20 September, followed by a Premiership meeting against the same opponents one week later.
Both matches present opportunities to shift momentum and inject much-needed confidence into their campaign.
For Longelo, these upcoming games will be another chance to showcase his value both defensively and offensively.
With his first assist now on the record and his goal tally already impressive for a defender, the Congolese full-back has quickly established himself as one of the standout performers in Motherwell’s early season.
His continued development will be crucial if the club are to turn draws into victories and push further up the Scottish Premiership table.
