The Super Eagles duo of Frank Onyeka and Taiwo Awoniyi were both involved as Coventry City suffered a 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in their opening Premier League fixture of the 2026/27 season on Friday.
Coventry, managed by Frank Lampard, travelled to the Emirates Stadium for their return to England’s top flight but were unable to match the defending champions, who secured a comfortable victory.
Onyeka started the encounter in midfield for Coventry and featured as Arsenal took control early in the game.
The Nigerian midfielder was involved in the visitors’ efforts to compete in the middle of the pitch but was unable to prevent the hosts from establishing a two-goal advantage before half-time.
Arsenal opened the scoring in the 15th minute through Kai Havertz, who finished into the bottom-right corner after receiving a pass from Riccardo Calafiori.
Bukayo Saka then doubled the lead in the 23rd minute, reacting quickly to a rebound inside the box.
Martin Odegaard added a third goal in the 49th minute after being played through by Ben White.
Awoniyi, who recently joined Coventry City from Nottingham Forest, was introduced in the 70th minute, replacing Ellis Simms as Lampard looked to provide Coventry with a fresh attacking option.
However, the Nigeria international could not inspire a comeback as Arsenal maintained control of the contest.
The defeat leaves Onyeka and Awoniyi facing a difficult start to their Premier League campaign, while Arsenal opened their title defence with three points and a clean sheet.
Wale Adejumo
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