PL2 playoff: Ex-Flying Eagles invitee scores for Crystal Palace but Abu has final say in Southampton win

Nigerian wingback Derrick Abu scored the game-winning goal as Southampton defeated Crystal Palace 2-1 to qualify for the Premier League 2 playoff final. 

Abu wasn't the only player of Nigerian descent on parade at Selhurst Park, as 2023 Flying Eagles invitee Ademola Ola-Adebomi, Mofe Jemide and Franco Umeh-Chibueze all started for Crystal Palace.

Romeo Akachukwu was named in Southampton's starting lineup, while teammate Princewill Ehibhatiomhan came on as a substitute in the closing minutes of the second half.

After Palace midfielder Hindolo Mustapha struck the post with an effort from outside the box, Dom Ballard gave the Saints the lead in the 32nd minute, slotting into an empty net with Abu providing the assist.

Five minutes into the second half, Ola-Adebomi continued his rich vein of goalscoring form by heading in the equalizer, with Franco Umeh involved in the buildup.

Abu came close to clinching it in normal time, unleashing a fierce shot that was stopped by the Palace keeper in the 67th minute.

With the game tied at 1-1 after ninety minutes, both sides headed into extra time to decide the winner.

In the 97th minute, Abu collected the ball on the edge of the Palace box and fired a stunning shot into the top corner, leaving goalkeeper Moulden with no chance.

A product of Chelsea's academy, Abu had a trial with Crystal Palace in April 2023 before signing with Southampton three months later.

Southampton will face Manchester City's Elite Development Squad in the Premier League 2 playoff final at the Joie Stadium.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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