Former Germany international Michael Ballack has showered praises on Nigerian international Nathan Tella, after his brilliant opener in Bayer Leverkusen’s hard-earned 3-2 win over rivals Borussia Dortmund.
The 25-year old fired in a brilliant strike from the edge of the box in just twenty-five seconds, after being set up by a Robert Andrich’s header. The early goal unsettled Nuri Sahin’s side as the reigning champions earned a difficult win at the Signal Iduna Park, to close the gap on League leaders Bayern Munich- who have a game in hand, to just a point.
Ballack, who had a remarkable career that spanned across spells for Bayer Leverkusen, Bayern Munich and Chelsea, praised the Nigerian winger for his sharp instincts which led to the goal.
“The whole team moved up. The ball was intercepted and Tella didn’t hesitate. An outstanding finish, with full confidence into the near corner. Unstoppable”, Ballack said.
The in-form Patrick Schick doubled Xabi Alonso’s side lead just seven minutes later, before English wonderkid Jamie Bynoe-Gittens halved the deficit for Borussia Dortmund.
The Champions who were without Nigerian striker Victor Boniface, who is close to a return to action, increased their lead when Czech Republic’s Schick scored his second of the game and the Champions third in the 19th minute, as they went into half-time 3-1 up.
Serhou Guirassy scored from the penalty spot late in the game to set up a nerve ending finish, which ended with the Die Werkself coming out victorious.
Tella who has struggled to recreate his last season’s form, will see the goal as a confidence-booster, and will be in contention for the champions next game against Mainz on Tuesday.
Shina Oludare is a distinguished sports journalist and managing editor, renowned for his comprehensive coverage of African football. His dedication to elevating African sports on the global stage has earned him widespread respect, along with numerous accolades for his contributions. A graduate of the LaLiga Business School in Madrid, Oludare’s passion for sports and his influential work in African football journalism have established him as a leading figure in the industry.
