Nigerian star, Oghenekaro Etebor underlined his importance to Spanish side, Las Palmas, following a solid performance against Barcelona on Thursday.
Etebo played from start to finish as the the hosts held their more illustrious visitors to a 1-1 draw.
Lionel Messi’s superb strike gave the Blaugrana a first half lead, but his compatriot, Jonathan Calleri equalised from the spot in the second half for Las Palmas to ensure the spoils were shared.
It was no less than the home side deserved, as they were brilliant, and fought hard.
Las Palmas’ Nigeria international, Etebo, 22, was a everywhere, and was hardly overwhelmed by the presence of Barca’s established stars like Sergio Busquets, Ivan Rakitic, Andres Iniesta and goalscorer, Messi.
Ernesto Valverde’s side expectedly dominated the encounter, but were unable to score more than a goal against an obdurate Las Palmas side.
The league leaders are now just five points ahead of second-place Atletico Madrid, who they face this weekend in what is the title decider.
For Etebo, 22, and his side, while they fought really hard and deserved their point, it wasn’t enough to see them leave their current 18th position on the log.
They remain in relegation, but level on points with Levante in 17th, but will be buoyed by that performance, as it was their first point against Barcelona since 2002.
Etebo, who picked up a yellow in the game, finished with 92% pass accuracy, winning six duels, including 100% of his tackles, two interceptions and completing his only attempted dribble.
Up next for them in the league, they are on the road, they face Celta Vigo.
Full Results
Real Betis 0-0 Real Sociedad
Las Palmas 1-1 Barcelona
Alaves 1-0 Levante
