After an 802-minute wait, Nigerian playmaker Ibrahim Olawoyin finally marked his first assist of the season, but his creative spark wasn’t enough to secure a win for Rizespor as they fell 2-1 to Sivasspor in a closely fought match at the New Sivas 4 Eylül Stadium.
The 26-year-old winger notched his first goal contribution of the Super Lig season just 10 games in, as his precision delivered a perfect cross for Dal Varešanović’s opening goal just eight minutes into the game.
This early lead offered Rizespor a glimpse of hope for a third consecutive league win after back-to-back victories over Antalyaspor and Bodrumspor.
However, the home side mounted a comeback in the second half, with Gambia’s Noah Sonko scoring twice in quick succession to turn the game on its head.
Ibrahim Olawoyin assist sets early tone, but Sivasspor’s comeback proves costly
His two goals, netted four and twelve minutes into the second period, shifted the momentum, ultimately proving decisive.
The match took another twist when Sivasspor’s Ugur Ciftci received a red card in the 72nd minute, yet Rizespor couldn’t capitalise on their numerical advantage, leaving Olawoyin’s assist as the only highlight in an otherwise frustrating outing.
Olawoyin's performance stood out as he dominated the attacking play, creating five chances—the most in the match—and completing two successful dribbles.
In his 59 touches, three came in the opposition's box, with 37 accurate passes, including six into the final third, showcasing his offensive impact.
On the defensive end, Olawoyin was no less diligent, recording five recoveries, one clearance, and one interception while winning four ground duels.
Despite his stellar effort, Rizespor couldn’t halt their five-game losing streak in the league.
The narrow defeat left them just a point above the relegation zone, standing in 15th place with three wins, one draw, and six losses.
Rizespor and Olawoyin will look to bounce back as they prepare to host Trabzonspor in their next Super Lig clash, hoping to transform Olawoyin's playmaking prowess into much-needed points.
