Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel made his competitive debut for Trabzonspor in the 2-2 draw with Sparta Prague in the Europa League third qualifying round, first-leg encounter at the General Arena on Thursday night.
The 32-year-old started the game for the Turkish Super Lig as they fought back from behind to rescue a valuable away draw but Chelsea legend was booked in the 32nd minute for a rash tackle on an opponent was replaced by Alexander Sorloth after the break.
Forgotten Super Eagles striker Anthony Nwakaeme featured from start to finish but fired blanks as he fellow African Costa Nhamoinesu put Sparta Prague ahead in the 16th minute before Gabon’s Guelor Kanga gave the hosts a two-goal advantage.
Ghanaian international, Caleb Ekuban reduced the deficit for Trabzonspor in the 89th minute as on-loan Crystal Palace forward Sorloth netted the equaliser for the visitors a minute from time.
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The return leg holds on August 15 at Medical Park Stadium with the winners on aggregate proceeding to the next phase.
This article was most recently revised and updated 4 years ago
