William Ekong was on the losing side on his debut for promoted Saudi Arabian club Al Kholood no thanks to a stoppage time winner by Al Ittihad.
The Super Eagles stand-in captain featured the entire game Saturday night against a team who paraded France World Cup stars Karim Benzema and Ngolo Kante and are coached by Laurent Blanc.
Ekong’s new team were coasting to a heart-warming home draw before they were dealt a big blow with a winning goal four minutes into stoppage time.
It was a baptism of fire for the 30-year-old defender and his modest club.
Ekong has signed a two-year contract with Al Kholood with option for an additional year.