Super Eagles midfielder Joe Aribo opened his Premier League goal account for the season in Southampton's 3-2 loss to Leicester City at St Mary’s Stadium on Saturday.
His effort doubled Southampton’s early lead, but a second-half comeback from the Foxes saw the Saints fall short of a first win of the campaign.
Aribo found the back of the net in the 28th minute, side-footing a precise cut-back from Kyle Walker-Peters to make it 2-0. This was Aribo’s first goal of the season and his first in the Premier League in over two years, with his last coming in October 2022 against Everton.
Cameron Archer had given Southampton an early advantage in the 8th minute, but the hosts were unable to hold onto their lead despite dominating much of the first half.
Ndidi’s Leicester City stage comeback
Wilfred Ndidi, starting for Leicester City, helped the Foxes stage a brilliant second-half comeback.
Facundo Buonanotte and Jamie Vardy struck to level the score, before Jordan Ayew’s late goal sealed a dramatic win for Leicester, dashing Southampton's hopes of victory.
Despite the defeat, Aribo’s performance stood out. The Nigerian midfielder completed 90 minutes, registering 50 touches, three shots on target, and an 81% pass accuracy. He has now scored three goals in 28 Premier League appearances.
Aribo, who joined Southampton from Rangers in July 2022, was a key figure in the Saints’ promotion campaign last season, making 38 Sky Bet Championship appearances and contributing four goals and one assist.
The Saints will be hoping for a quick turnaround in form as they aim to secure their place in the top flight.
