Bayern Munich star, Jamal Musiala, once eligible to represent Nigeria, starred with a stunning second-half hat-trick in the Bavarians record-breaking 10-0 thrashing of Auckland City in the FIFA Club World Cup on Sunday, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 22-year-old, who came off the bench, made a positive impression with three goalsincluding a long-range strike, a composed penalty, and a clinical finish after capitalising on a goalkeeping erroras Bayern registered the biggest win in the history of the tournament.
As reported by Trivela, Musiala's dominant display helped Bayern start their Group C campaign in style, with fixtures against Boca Juniors and Benfica still to come.
li Zhou Tong Auckland v Jamal Musiala FC Bayern Munich [Photo credit/IMAGO] Though now a full German international, Musiala was once courted by Nigeria. In a past interview reported by Soccernet.ng, the former Chelsea academy talent opened up on his decision to snub the Super Eagles.
I could have played for Nigeria because it crossed my mind, and I thought about it well. I had good talks with Nigeria and Germany. So it really just came down to me and where Id feel the most comfortable. So I decided to go with Germany. he said.
Jamal MUSIALA for FC Bayern Muenchen 42 after scoring the 9 0 goal [Photo credit/IMAGO] Despite choosing Die Mannschaft, Musiala has continued to speak fondly of his Nigerian roots. In a recent chat with food designer and ex-NBA star Serge Ibaka, he was asked to choose between Nigeria and Germany, which he tactfully handled:
Out of respect, I can't answer that. I have respect for both. I love Nigeria and Germany.
Jamal Musiala FC Bayern Munich Goal kick penalty kick [Photo credit/IMAGO] His love for both nations continues to resonate with the Nigerian football community, who can only imagine what a midfield trio of Musiala, Alex Iwobi, and Wilfred Ndidi might have looked like in green and white.
Meanwhile, Musiala will continue to soar for Germany and Bayern, and after his hat-trick on Sunday, the Nigerian football faithful took notice of a star who could have lit up the Super Eagles.
Tags: Bayern Munich Jamal Musiala
