Nigerian youngster Oluwasegun Samuel Otusanya scored his first professional goal on Thursday, January 16, 2025, to help Náutico secure a thrilling 3-2 victory over Jaguar in their Campeonato Pernambucano clash, Soccernet.ng reports.
Otusanya doubled Náutico’s lead in the 65th minute, meeting a deep cross from the left flank with a towering header from close range. Kauan ‘Maranhão’ Almeida da Costa had earlier opened the scoring for the hosts in the first half.
SAMUEL OTUSANYA pic.twitter.com/QvSCLehVI7
— Náutico (@nauticope) January 16, 2025
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Despite a late fightback from Jaguar, with Pedro Maycon netting twice, Bruno Mezenga’s 89th-minute strike sealed all three points for Náutico, moving them to third place in the league after two rounds.
Samuel Otusanya náutico pic.twitter.com/9TICSpuVS8
— Larinha Silva (@slarinha238) January 16, 2025
The 20-year-old Flying Eagles forward will have another opportunity to shine when Náutico visit Central SC at the Estádio Luiz José de Lacerda on January 19 for their next league fixture.
Otusanya’s South American journey began in August 2024 when he joined America-PE from Norwegian side FK Haugesund for €57,000.
After impressing during a pre-season trial, Náutico signed him on loan in December, with an option for a future purchase. The loan deal includes a clause ensuring Náutico receives a percentage of any subsequent transfer fee.
Otusanya started his career in Nigeria with Stars Builders Academy, where he rose to prominence by leading the team to victory in the Ogun State League. His two-goal performance in the final helped secure the club’s first-ever title.
In 2023, he moved to FK Haugesund, where he dominated the youth ranks with an impressive 32 goals in 36 games for the B team.
Although he made three senior appearances, he did not score. His exploits attracted interest from clubs across Europe and America, with America-PE ultimately winning the race for his signature.
Now making his mark in Brazil, Otusanya’s maiden professional goal signals the start of what could be a promising career on the South American stage.