Super Eagles midfielder Joe Aribo has made a triumphant return to the Premier League after Southampton defeated Leeds United in the Championship playoff final.
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Emotions ran high at Wembley as Aribo’s team shattered Leeds United’s hopes of an immediate return to the Premier League, with Adam Armstrong’s decisive goal sending a clear message to Super Eagles coach Finidi George.
The 1-0 victory means Aribo will join his fellow Nigerian internationals, Wilfred Ndidi and Kelechi Iheanacho, in the Premier League next season.
With Leicester City and Ipswich Town already securing automatic promotion, the last spot was decided in a tense match between Southampton and Leeds.
Armstrong’s goal in the 24th minute, after a perfect pass from Will Smallbone, secured Southampton’s win. Leeds, managed by Daniel Farke, now faces another season in the Championship after coming so close to promotion.
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Photo via Skysports
For Aribo, the win is a joyful return to the Premier League after Southampton’s relegation last season. The Nigerian international will now compete alongside Ndidi and Iheanacho, aiming to elevate their clubs in the 2024/25 Premier League season.
Despite being left out of Finidi George’s first squad, Aribo played the entire match, completing 84% of his passes and creating key opportunities.
His composed and confident performance against Leeds is likely to have caught the new Nigeria coach’s attention.
As Southampton celebrated their victory, Leeds were left heartbroken, their Premier League dreams dashed.
However, they will undoubtedly strive for promotion again, while Aribo and his teammates look forward to the challenges of England’s top division.
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