Brian Okonkwo makes debut for Arsenal U21s in 8-goal thriller v Aston Villa; Nwaneri nets brace

Promising Nigerian goalkeeper Brian Okonkwo made his debut for Arsenal U21s in a Premier League 2 clash against Aston Villa at Meadow Park in Hertfordshire on Monday evening, allnigeriasoccer.com reports.

Brian comes from a goalkeeping family, with his elder brother Arthur Okonkwo also a goalkeeper on the books of Arsenal and was recently named the best goalkeeper in the League Two for the 2023-2024 season after starring for loan club Wrexham.

Last month, the younger Okonkwo was loaned out to Isthmian Premier League side Cheshunt on a work experience loan until the end of the season, but continued training with the Arsenal academy as per the loan agreement terms. 

In what was his first call-up to Arsenal U21s, the 18-year-old went the distance as the Young Gunners suffered a 5-3 loss at the hands of Aston Villa.

History-making attacking midfielder Ethan Nwaneri and striker Nathan Butler-Oyedeji were the other players with Nigerian heritage that started for Arsenal, while Chisom Afoka started for the visitors. 

Despite Arsenal taking the lead through an own goal by Aidan Borland, the visitors turned the game around to secure three points.

A double apiece by Kyrie Pierre and Kobei Moore and an additional tally from Travis Patterson helped Aston Villa establish a four-goal lead after 76 minutes.

Nwaneri reduced the deficit with a stunning effort into the top corner at minute 86 and got his second of the game from close range in added time. 

Arsenal, who are sixth in the Premier League 2 standings, travel to Blackburn Rovers in their next game on Monday, April 22.

Igho Kingsley 

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