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Add Francis Onyeka Makes Champions League Debut in Leverkusen's 5-0 Victory

Catharine Leblanc 2025-10-23 10:19:30 +08:00
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Francis Onyeka Makes Champions League Debut in Leverkusen%27s 5-0 Victory.-.md Normal file

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<br>Seventeen year old Francis Onyeka, a talented German born Nigerian forward, made his UEFA Champions [League debut](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/stadiums-and-facilities/10-reasons-caf-approved-remo-stars-stadium-ikenne-for-champions-league/) for Bayer Leverkusen during their emphatic 5-0 victory against Salzburg at the BayArena. Onyeka, recently honoured with the prestigious Fritz Walter Medal for youth football excellence in Germany, continues to make waves as a [rising star](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/football-events-and-tournaments/noah-adedeji-sternberg-scores-on-full-debut-as-genk-triumphs/).
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<br>With six first team players, including Nigeria’s Victor Boniface, unavailable due to injuries, [manager Xabi](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/category/youth-football/) Alonso promoted Onyeka from the youth squad for the match. Leverkusen dominated the game with goals from Florian Wirtz, Alejandro Grimaldo, Patrik Schick, and Aleix Garcia.
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<br>Onyeka was introduced as a substitute for Florian Wirtz in the 76th minute, marking a milestone in his career. This follows his professional debut earlier this season in a DFB-Pokal match against SV Elversberg. So far, he has been called up for ten first team matches across the Bundesliga, Champions League, and DFB-Pokal.
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<br>Editorial
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<br>[Francis Onyeka’s Champions League debut symbolizes Bayer Leverkusen’s](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/international-nigerian-footballers/francis-onyeka-makes-senior-debut-for-bayer-leverkusen-in-dfb-pokal-win/) commitment to nurturing young talent, a hallmark of the club’s philosophy. Onyeka’s inclusion highlights his potential and reflects Xabi Alonso’s trust in the youth system to deliver on the biggest stages.
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<br>For Nigerian football enthusiasts, Onyeka’s rise is particularly exciting. As a player eligible to represent Nigeria, he for a [future where the Super Eagles](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/football-tactics-and-analysis/super-eagles-stars-at-a-crossroads-uncertain-futures-loom/) could benefit from his skill and European experience. This debut might also inspire more Nigerian players to embrace opportunities in youth academies abroad, fostering a new generation of talent.
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<br>Leverkusen’s youth centric approach under Alonso exemplifies how clubs can balance competitiveness with player development. As Onyeka continues to gain experience in high stakes matches, he is set to become a key figure for both his club and potentially for [Nigeria’s national team](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/international-nigerian-footballers/fiorentina-star-picks-italy-over-nigeria-for-national-team/).
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<br>The challenge now lies in sustaining this momentum, refining his skills, and seizing opportunities when they arise. Onyeka’s journey is just beginning, but the foundation for a stellar career has been firmly laid.
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<br>Did You Know?
Francis Onyeka received the Fritz Walter Medal, Germany’s top youth football honour, in 2024.
Bayer Leverkusen is known for developing world-class players, including Kai Havertz and [Florian Wirtz](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/category/news/transfer-news/).
Onyeka is eligible to play for both Germany and Nigeria, giving him dual international options.
Leverkusen’s 5-0 victory against Salzburg solidifies their position as Group D leaders in the Champions League.
Victor Boniface, absent from the game, has been a key player for Leverkusen this season, highlighting the club’s depth and adaptability.
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