According to a report by The Punch on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, Super Eagles invitee Mubarak Suleiman has made history in the UEFA Champions League, becoming the first Nigerian teenager to start a match in the competition since Alex Iwobi achieved the feat in March 2016.

The 19-year-old midfielder started for Slavia Prague in their thrilling 2-2 draw against Fenerbahçe at the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium in Istanbul on Tuesday night.

Suleiman’s achievement brings an end to a decade-long wait for a Nigerian teenager to feature in the starting lineup of a Champions League match. Iwobi was the last to accomplish this when he started for Arsenal against Barcelona in the round of 16 in March 2016.

The young midfielder made his second appearance in the prestigious competition after playing against Sabah FK on October 13, when Slavia Prague suffered a 2-0 defeat in Azerbaijan.

Despite facing difficult opposition, Suleiman showed encouraging signs, creating two key passes and completing six accurate passes into the attacking third. He was eventually replaced by Pavel Kacor in the 85th minute.

Slavia Prague demonstrated impressive fighting spirit as they recovered from a two-goal deficit to secure a valuable away point. Fenerbahçe initially took control of the encounter, with Oğuz Aydın and Mason Greenwood scoring within the opening 11 minutes to give the Turkish side a comfortable advantage.

However, Slavia Prague responded in the 15th minute when Lukas Provod capitalised on a misplaced pass from Matteo Guendouzi to pull one goal back.

The visitors completed their comeback in the 90th minute when Kacor produced a spectacular acrobatic volley to make it 2-2. Nigerian forward Emmanuel Ayaosi played a crucial role in the equaliser by delivering the cross that Kacor converted. The goal also marked Ayaosi’s first senior goal for Slavia Prague at the age of 20.

Suleiman has contributed one goal and one assist in eight appearances across all competitions this season. The midfielder was initially expected to join the Super Eagles for their international friendly against Russia but withdrew before the game.

His latest Champions League achievement represents an important milestone in his development as he continues to establish himself in European football. The youngster will now aim to build on his experience, improve his performances and earn further opportunities with the Nigerian national team while helping Slavia Prague in their European campaign.