Related Post
Nigeria’s Onuche Ogbelu has seen his FIFA Club World Cup journey come to an early end after his club, Espérance of Tunisia, were comprehensively beaten 3-0 by Chelsea on Wednesday, Footynaija.com reports.
The Premier League giants proved too strong, with goals from Tosin Adarabioyo — eligible to represent Nigeria internationally — and Liam Delap handing them a two-goal lead before promising teenager Tyrique George sealed the result late on.
Espérance’s exit comes after a mixed group stage campaign in which they recorded just one win — a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Major League Soccer side LAFC.
Unrelated,
— ₮ee ฿oi ⚽ (@teecy_cfc) June 25, 2025
Onuche Ogbelu was very impressive in midfield today… Nigeria should not sleep on this boy, he plays like Caicedo. And he’s just 22 years. pic.twitter.com/IMPGjyWAd3
Defeats to Brazilian outfit Flamengo and now Chelsea left the North African giants third in the group, collecting three points from three matches. LAFC finished bottom without a win.
Despite the disappointment, 22-year-old Ogbelu stood out with a series of industrious performances in midfield. He remains the only Nigerian to have played every minute of the tournament so far, earning plaudits for his relentless energy, composure, and tactical awareness.
Against Chelsea, the former Flying Eagles midfielder delivered a commendable display — completing 91% of his passes, winning three fouls, recovering the ball six times, and prevailing in four ground duels.
While Espérance bow out, Chelsea progress to the Round of 16, where they will face Portuguese heavyweights Benfica on Saturday, June 28.
