Leon Balogun Admits: Playing Against Messi Was A Great Test For Me
Published: July 25, 2018Leon Balogun was delighted to make his debut for Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion in their 1-1 draw with Charlton Athletic on Tuesday night.
The Super Eagles star, who was in action for 64 minutes for the Seagulls, did not resume pre-season training with the rest of his teammates due to his participation at the 2018 World Cup.
West Berlin-born Balogun was unarguably Nigeria's most important defender in Russia, where he faced the likes of Mario Mandžukić (Croatia), Alfreð Finnbogason (Iceland) and Lionel Messi (Argentina).
''It’s an experience that will bring you forward as a player. I am 30 years old, but to play Lionel Messi, who is the best in the world in my opinion, was a great test for me,'' Balogun said to Brighton's official website.
''We also played Croatia, who went to the final and they were a very experienced side.
''It was a great challenge and we were hoping to get further into the knockout stages, but it wasn’t to be.''
Brighton will tackle Birmingham City and Nantes in friendly matches before their Premier League opener against Isaac Success' Watford on August 11.
Igho Kingsley
Photo Credit : brightonandhovealbion.com
Latest News
- Hilary Gong open to MLS move after Toronto FC missed out on signing him in primary transfer window
- Finidi sweating on fitness of Fenerbahce RB Osayi-Samuel ahead of Super Eagles squad announcement
- Manchester United join Newcastle, Chelsea and Tottenham in race for Nigerian central defender
- Olympics could begin new era for Nigeria women's soccer
- Denmark coach reveals he has visited Obi-Martin at Arsenal ahead of 2024 U17 EURO
- Official: 34yo Nigerian striker with 105 career goals in EFL released by Colchester United
- Report highlights why Ajax striker Akpom is a very interesting player for several PL clubs
- Report: Chelsea retain a strong interest in signing former Super Eagles invitee
- Retained and released list: Reading make contract decisions on three Nigerians including Paul Mukairu
- Nationwide League One: Coach Bunmi Haruna reacts to FWC FC clinching top spot in Area 3 Centre
Football News 24/7
News Categories
- Football Betting
- African Players
- Australia/ Asia
- Belgian Championship
- Bundesliga
- Danish Football
- English Premier League
- Nigeria National Teams
- Nigeria Premier League
- Norwegian Football
- Polish Football
- Russian Championship
- Serie A
- Spanish Liga
- Swedish Championship
- Transfer
- Turkish Championship
- Ukrainian Football
- Uncategorized
- Women's Football