Carabao Cup: Tottenham Hotspur loanee Ajayi scores on full debut as Doncaster thrash Boro

Tottenham Hotspur loanee Damola Ajayi marked his first senior start in style, scoring as Doncaster Rovers cruised to a 4-0 victory over Middlesbrough to book their place in the Carabao Cup second round on Tuesday night.

The 19-year-old, who had made three previous senior appearances – all from the bench – opened his account for Rovers in the 23rd minute, pouncing on a loose ball from a headed clearance and finding the net via a deflection off Boro captain Alfie Jones. 

It was his second career goal, adding to the one he scored on his Tottenham Hotspur debut against Elfsborg in the Europa League in January 2025.

Ben Close had given the visitors an early lead when his effort from inside the box deflected past goalkeeper Tom Glover, before late strikes from Robbie Gotts and Tom Nixon wrapped up a dominant performance at the Riverside Stadium.

Ajayi, who has featured in all three of Doncaster’s competitive matches this season, was substituted for Luke Molyneux with 25 minutes remaining after an impressive display.

The win maintains Rovers' perfect start to the campaign, and they will look to extend their run when they face Wycombe Wanderers in League One on Saturday, August 16.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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