The Bundesliga clash between Werder Bremen and Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday ended in a dramatic 3–3 draw, with two Nigerian internationals at the heart of the contest.
Felix Agu, operating at right-back for Bremen, endured a testing evening against Leverkusen’s fluid front line but remained resilient until the end. His compatriot, Nathan Tella, provided an early spark for the visitors, assisting Patrik Schick’s opener in the 5th minute and consistently stretching Bremen’s defense with his pace and direct runs.
Leverkusen looked set for victory after Schick’s second-half penalty extended their lead, but Bremen showed late resilience. A late equalizer ensured the points were shared in a six-goal encounter that highlighted both teams’ attacking intent and defensive vulnerabilities.
From a Nigerian perspective, the game carried added significance. Agu has been named in the Super Eagles’ final squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa, reinforcing his growing profile. Tella, despite his strong club form and inclusion in the provisional list, was ultimately excluded from the final selection.
Meanwhile, Victor Boniface, Leverkusen’s forward and another Nigerian of note, was absent from the matchday squad and likewise omitted from the Super Eagles’ final list.
For Agu, the draw represents both a stern defensive test and timely preparation ahead of international duty. For Tella, the performance underscored the paradox of excelling at club level while remaining outside Nigeria’s immediate plans.
