Rivers United boss Stanley Eguma has hailed Godwin Aguda for his match-winning heroics against former side Enugu Rangers on matchday 21 of the 2020-21 Nigeria Professional Football League.

Aguda’s return to the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium proved to be fatal for his former side as his 8th-minute effort was enough to consign Rangers to defeat and claim all three points for his new side.

The 23-year-old forward spent three trophy-laden years at Rangers, playing a pivotal role as they ended a three-decade title drought in 2016 and sparking the comeback from three goals as the Flying Antelopes defeated Kano Pillars to win the Federation Cup in 2018.

He had a brief stint with Saudi side Al-Washm before joining Rivers United in 2020 where his performances have helped spur Eguma’s charge for a first league crown since 2011.

And after his winner against Rangers, Eguma was quick to highlight Aguda’s importance to his team.

“Yes, I think it’s important for him and for us,” Eguma said about Aguda’s goal against his former side. “You know, his last club in Nigeria was Enugu Rangers, and he has come back home, and rescuing a goal in this all-important match, he has shown that he’s still very important.

“He has shown his fans back home that he’s still very important and useful. He has proven that, and it’s good that he’s playing for a good team that’s able to expose his skills, where he’s able to express himself and make a name for himself. So, I think he did well, and I commend his efforts.”

Rivers United have 38 points in fourth place, two points off the top spot and next play Abia Warriors at the Adokiye Amiesimeka Stadium on matchday 22.