Super Eagles defender Felix Agu made a successful return from injury as Werder Bremen recorded a 2-0 victory over VfL Bochum in a pre-season friendly at the Parkstadion in Zell am Ziller, Austria, on Saturday.
The 26-year-old was named in Werder Bremen’s starting line-up, marking his first appearance after recovering from the muscular injury that disrupted his participation in the club’s pre-season preparations.
Agu’s return comes as a major boost for both Werder Bremen and Nigeria, with the versatile defender expected to play a key role for club and country during the 2026/27 campaign.
Felix Agu returns after injury setback
Agu had been sidelined in recent weeks after sustaining muscular problems during pre-season training.
The defender had resumed individual training earlier in the week before gradually rejoining team sessions, convincing the coaching staff that he was ready for competitive action.
His inclusion in the starting XI reflected the club’s confidence in his recovery, although Werder Bremen remained cautious by carefully managing his minutes.
The match provided Agu with valuable playing time as he continues to build his fitness ahead of the new Bundesliga season.
Werder Bremen take control before half-time
Werder Bremen enjoyed the better of the opening exchanges and deservedly took the lead shortly before the interval.
Erevbenagie opened the scoring in the 42nd minute after collecting a perfectly weighted through ball from Olivier Deman.
The forward calmly rounded experienced goalkeeper Timo Horn before slotting the ball into the bottom corner to give Werder Bremen a deserved 1-0 advantage.
The goal rewarded Bremen’s attacking intent after a disciplined first-half display against their Bundesliga rivals.
Agu involved in physical contest
Operating on the left side of defence, Agu faced a physically demanding afternoon against Bochum’s attacking players.
The Nigeria international was involved in several robust challenges and heated exchanges as the intensity of the friendly increased after the break.
Shortly after the restart, Agu was shown a yellow card following an altercation involving Alessandro Crimaldi and former Werder Bremen midfielder Manuel Mbom, who were also cautioned by the referee.
Despite the physical nature of the contest, Agu completed his return without any injury concerns, providing another encouraging sign for the club’s medical and coaching staff.
Managed return for the Super Eagles defender
With player fitness the priority during pre-season, Werder Bremen opted not to overwork Agu on his first appearance back.
The defender was substituted in the 48th minute as head coach Daniel Thioune made a double change to carefully manage his workload.
The decision underlined the club’s long-term approach, ensuring Agu continues his recovery without unnecessary risk before the start of the competitive campaign.
His successful return is expected to increase his chances of being fully fit for Werder Bremen’s opening Bundesliga fixtures.
Musah seals comfortable victory
Werder Bremen completed the win in the 70th minute through Salim Musah.
The midfielder won a penalty after being brought down inside the area before confidently converting the resulting spot-kick.
Musah sent goalkeeper Timo Horn the wrong way to double Werder Bremen’s advantage and secure a deserved 2-0 victory.
The result brought a successful conclusion to the club’s training camp in Austria and provided further encouragement ahead of the new season.
Positive news for Werder Bremen and Nigeria
Agu’s return is particularly significant given his growing importance for both Werder Bremen and the Super Eagles.
Capable of operating as a left-back, wing-back or central defender, the former Germany youth international has become one of the most versatile defenders available to Nigeria.
His pace, defensive awareness and ability to contribute in attack have made him an important option for both club and country.
With the Bundesliga season approaching, Werder Bremen will hope Agu can remain injury-free and build on his impressive performances from previous campaigns.
For Nigeria, his return also offers positive news ahead of upcoming international fixtures, where his versatility and experience could prove invaluable as the Super Eagles continue preparations for future continental and World Cup qualifying matches.
After successfully completing his first appearance since injury, Agu will now look to increase his playing time in Werder Bremen’s remaining pre-season fixtures before competitive football resumes.
