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Nigerian kid Ibrahim announces arrival in Europe as debut goal fires modest club to first final in 48 years
@Source: pulsesports.ng
The talented 19-year-old Nigerian striker is already making waves in Europe just months after he swapped the local scene for France.
19-year-old Nigerian sensation, Hafiz Ibrahim stole the spotlight with a match-winning performance that propelled Stade de Reims to their first Coupe de France final in nearly five decades.
The Super Eagles-eligible striker delivered a goal and an assist in Reims' dramatic 2-1 victory over AS Cannes in the semi-final at the Stade Pierre de Coubertin.
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His brilliance has not only reignited dreams of silverware for Reims but also marked him as one of Europe’s brightest young talents.
Ibrahim’s impact was immediate and electrifying. Just 14 minutes into the match, Mamadou Diakhon sprinted down the left flank and delivered a precise pass to the teenager, who calmly slotted the ball past the Cannes goalkeeper to open the scoring (0-1).
The goal sent Reims fans into a frenzy, showing Ibrahim’s composure under pressure.
Cannes, however, refused to bow out quietly. Early in the second half, Cedric Goncalves delivered a pinpoint corner that captain Cheikh N’Doye headed home to level the match, igniting wild celebrations among the home supporters.
But Ibrahim wasn’t done yet. Just six minutes after Cannes’ equaliser, he turned provider with a moment of brilliance.
Bursting down the wing, he delivered an inch-perfect low cross to substitute Teddy Teuma, who converted from close range to restore Reims’ lead.
Despite relentless pressure from Cannes in the closing stages, including a stunning save by goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf to deny Julien Domingues (65’), Reims held firm to secure their historic win.
The victory marks a turning point for Reims, who last appeared in the Coupe de France final in 1977 and haven’t lifted the trophy since 1958.
Their journey to this stage has been nothing short of remarkable, overcoming tough challenges along the way. Now, they face Paris Saint-Germain on May 24 at the Stade de France, a chance to end their long wait for glory.
For Ibrahim, this performance is just the beginning. Having transitioned from Nigeria’s local football scene to European competition only months ago, his rapid adaptation has drawn comparisons to some of Nigeria’s finest exports.
With his pace, vision, and clinical finishing already making waves, Ibrahim is poised to become a key figure not only for Reims but also on the international stage.
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