Super Eagles duo Chidera Ejuke and Kelechi Iheanacho made their full debuts, but were powerless to help as Sevilla's quest for a first win of the season continued on Tuesday.
The Andalusian side played out a 0-0 draw against Mallorca at Estadi Mallorca Son Moix in midweek La Liga action, their first scoreless outing of the campaign.
While Ejuke displayed flashes of creativity, Iheanacho had a quieter outing, albeit one that involved a lot ofhard running and pockets of encouraging link-up play.
Mallorca started brightly, with Vedat Muriqi testing Sevilla’s defense early. The visitors grew into the game, however, and dominated the second half but couldn’t capitalize, with Djibril Sow missing a key chance.
Despite Sevilla going down to 10 men after Saul's red card, Mallorca couldn’t break the deadlock, and both teams were left frustrated in a goalless draw.
Barren run for Chidera Ejuke, Kelechi Iheanacho continues
Manager García Pimienta handed starts to both Nigeria internationals, hoping they could inject some much-needed flair into Sevilla’s attack.
Chidera Ejuke, who played 89 minutes, was one of the standout performers, completing four successful dribbles out of five attempts, achieving a 91% pass accuracy, and creating six chances. Both his tallies for dribbles and chances created were highs for the match overall, illustrating his influence on proceedings.
His shooting, however, left something to be desired, as both his efforts on goal, taking from long range, failed to hit the target. A third effort, from inside the penalty area, was blocked.
Kelechi Iheanacho, deployed upfront, played 69 minutes, contributing two chances created, one shot on target, 13 touches, and a 71% pass accuracy.
The 27-year-old struggled to impose himself on the proceedings, although his one unblocked effort was well-strucj and drew a good save from the opposing goalkeeper.
Both players are still searching for their first goal or assist in La Liga after two matches.
