Sunderland’s Spanish forward delivered a moment of individual brilliance in their Good Friday clash against Bristol City, netting an astonishing solo goal that left fans and teammates in awe. Defender Luke O’Nien was quick to applaud Eliezer Mayenda’s stunning effort, while also praising the team’s grit in what turned out to be a narrow 2-1 defeat at Ashton Gate.
Speaking ahead of Sunderland’s upcoming home fixture against Blackburn Rovers, O’Nien showered Mayenda with praise for his breathtaking goal. The 19-year-old Spain U21 international picked up the ball deep in his own half, just outside Sunderland’s 18-yard box, and embarked on a remarkable 70-yard run. Slaloming past four Bristol City defenders with control and composure, Mayenda capped the move by calmly slotting the ball past goalkeeper Max O’Leary to give Sunderland the lead in the 31st minute. The moment was all the more impressive considering Sunderland had been reduced to 10 men early on, following Trai Hume’s red card for a foul on Nahki Wells in just the seventh minute.
Despite the defeat, O’Nien was full of admiration for Mayenda’s effort, calling it “comfortably the best goal I’ve ever seen live.” He remarked that the strike didn’t surprise many within the squad, as Mayenda often displays that same flair and sharpness in training. O’Nien emphasized the forward’s exceptional temperament and technical quality, highlighting how rare it is to see a player receive the ball so far from goal and still look certain to score.
Reflecting on Mayenda’s journey, O’Nien noted the young striker’s growth and resilience. He acknowledged that Mayenda didn’t have the smoothest start at the club but has shown exactly what it takes for a young player to break through. Through consistent hard work and perseverance, he is now reaping the rewards of his efforts.
On the match itself, O’Nien expressed pride in the team’s performance despite the setback. He praised the squad’s discipline and organization after going down to ten men so early. Although Bristol City’s goals—a long-range strike from a centre-half and a deflected effort—were tough to take, O’Nien believes the game served as a valuable test as Sunderland heads into the crucial final stretch before the Championship play-offs.
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