Nigerian defender Nduka Junior officially made his first appearance for Erbil FC on Thursday, coming on at half-time in a friendly match that ended in a goalless draw.
The game marked the Super Eagles B captain’s maiden outing since being presented to fans earlier in the week following the completion of his medical and official unveiling at the Iraqi club. Nduka, who joined Erbil FC after a successful spell with Nigeria Premier Football League champions Remo Stars, was introduced after the break and delivered a composed display at the back, helping his new side keep a clean sheet.
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The 22-year-old is best remembered for captaining Remo Stars to their historic NPFL title in the 2024/25 season and also wore the armband for Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN). His leadership qualities and consistency earned him respect on the domestic scene before securing his move abroad.
At Erbil FC, expectations are high that his experience and defensive solidity will strengthen the club ahead of the upcoming Iraqi Stars League campaign. The club’s technical team expressed satisfaction with his first outing, noting that he settled quickly into the side’s defensive unit despite only joining the squad recently.
For Nduka, the friendly was an opportunity to begin adapting to a new environment and to show why he has been trusted with responsibility at both club and national levels. His performance, calm under pressure and decisive in challenges, reflected the qualities that made him a standout in the NPFL.
While the match ended without goals, it provided Erbil fans with their first glimpse of the Nigerian defender, who will be expected to play a key role as the club targets a strong season.
