Europa League: Five African players who made their mark on matchday two

African players played decisive roles across the Europa League on the second matchday, with goals helping Sunderland, Olympique Lyonnais, Bayer Leverkusen and Stade Rennais secure important victories.

Noah Sadiki and Jules Ahoka both stood out for Sunderland, while Ernest Nuamah, Ibrahim Maza and Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal also made significant contributions for their respective clubs.

Sadiki seals Sunderland win in stoppage time

Noah Sadiki came off the bench to give Sunderland a dramatic 2-1 victory away to Torreense.

The Congolese international struck in the 90th minute and two seconds, finding the net moments before the final whistle to settle a closely contested match. His late goal made him one of the central figures in the English side’s success.

Sadiki’s decisive intervention completed a memorable Sunderland performance, but he was not the only Congolese player to influence the outcome.

Ahoka provides the turning point

At 20, Jules Ahoka helped Sunderland recover from behind by scoring their equaliser in the 67th minute.

The forward found space inside the penalty area and met a cross from Nordi Mukiele with a header to make it 1-1. His goal restored belief for the visitors and set the stage for Sadiki to deliver the winning moment in added time.

The two players’ contributions gave Sunderland both the momentum and the late finish required to claim victory.

Nuamah scores for Lyon

Ernest Nuamah was also on target as Olympique Lyonnais defeated Crystal Palace 3-2 in an entertaining encounter.

The Ghanaian winger scored Lyon’s second goal just before half-time, giving his side greater control in a match that remained competitive. His pace and ability to create openings in the final third proved valuable as Lyon held on for the win.

Nuamah’s goal added to an influential attacking display and helped his team take advantage of a key moment before the interval.

Maza completes Leverkusen rout

Ibrahim Maza completed Bayer Leverkusen’s 4-0 victory over Lech Poznan by scoring the fourth goal.

The Algerian international brought an emphatic evening to a close with the final goal, removing any remaining doubt about the result. His contribution underlined the progress he is making and his growing ability to affect European matches.

Bayer Leverkusen’s comprehensive victory provided Maza with another opportunity to demonstrate his importance to the team.

Ait Boudlal makes the difference for Rennes

Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal combined defensive discipline with a decisive attacking contribution as Stade Rennais beat OFI Crete 2-1.

The Morocco defender scored the goal that gave the Breton side the advantage late in the match. He also produced an outstanding display at the back, recording seven interceptions the highest total in the game.

Ait Boudlal’s performance ensured he influenced the result at both ends of the pitch as Stade Rennais secured their important victory.