Super Eagles Striker Kayode Scores Against Former Club
Olanrewaju Kayode made a statement in the Turkish league by scoring a crucial goal for Esenler Erokspor in their 2-0 victory over his former club, Sanliurfaspor. The Nigerian forward, who previously played for Sanliurfaspor, sealed the win in the 50th minute, punishing his old team with a well-taken strike.
The goal marks his fourth in 10 appearances for Esenler Erokspor, highlighting his growing influence at the club. Kayode has had a well travelled career, featuring for clubs across Europe, including Luzern Switzerland, Maccabi Netanya Israel, Austria Vienna Austria, Girona Spain, and Shakhtar Donetsk Ukraine, before settling in Turkey, where he has played for multiple clubs.
The Ibadan born striker has represented Nigeria at all levels, making him one of the more experienced Super Eagles players abroad.
Editorial
Olanrewaju Kayode’s goal against his former club is a reminder of the unpredictability of football. Strikers thrive on confidence, and few things boost a player's morale more than scoring in a meaningful match especially against a team they once played for.
Kayode’s journey across multiple leagues and clubs shows the struggles and adaptability of Nigerian footballers abroad. Many players move frequently for stability, better opportunities, or more game time. While some find success early, others, like Kayode, carve out a respectable career through perseverance and consistency.
His performance at Esenler Erokspor is a sign that he still has plenty to offer. Nigeria’s national team has a wealth of attacking options, but form matters. If Kayode continues scoring regularly, he could force his way back into the Super Eagles setup. With the 2026 World Cup qualifiers ongoing, Nigeria could benefit from experienced strikers who have played in different environments and understand high-pressure situations.