Rennes Vs PSG 1-1: Arena Debuts Former Super Eagles Star Nephew
JAKARTA - French-born midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu made his debut as a starter for Rennes in a Ligue 1 match against Paris Saint-Germain at Roazhon Park on Sunday night.
Aged 17, Ugochukwu is the nephew of former Nigeria international centre-back Onyekachi Apam, who wore a Rennes uniform for four seasons, from 2010 to 2014.
Rennes manager Bruno Génésio was forced to give his full debut to the French-Nigerian teenager due to the absence of midfielders Eduardo Camavinga, Steven Nzonzi and Jonas Martin.
17-year-old central midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu is due to make his 1st start for Rennes tonight, in their clash with PSG, according to L'Équipe.
— Get French Football News (@GFFN) May 9, 2021
Ugochukwu was included in Rennes' match-day squad on six different occasions this season, making his professional debut when he entered the game as a last-minute substitute against Dijon FCO on 25 April, before last night's game against PSG.
Lesley's younger brother Chibuike Ugochukwu plays for Rennes U13, All Nigeria Soccer reports.
Meanwhile, Brazilian superstar Neymar celebrated his contract extension until 2025 with a goal from the penalty spot in the first half extra time.
In the 70th minute, eight minutes after Ugochukwu was substituted, Sehrou Guirassy headed the ball in from a corner to make Rennes equalise.
With a 1–1 draw, PSG's hopes of winning the French League were dealt a major blow. Lille are three points clear at the top of the table with two games remaining.