Ex-Eagles star Michael Olise who snubbed Nigeria scores 25-yard stunner for France

The one who slip away from Nigeria, Michael Olise, now plays for France's under-23s. (Photo Credit: France/X)

Ex-Eagles star Michael Olise who snubbed Nigeria scores 25-yard stunner for France

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 09:45 - 14.07.2024

The former Eagles winger helped himself to a brace as France thrashed the Dominican Republic 7-0 in a pre-Paris 2024 Olympics game.

Just after Michael Olise decided to represent France over the Super Eagles, the talented young attacker delivered a stunning performance for the French U23 team, leaving many wondering what might have been.

In a dominant 7-0 friendly victory over the Dominican Republic in Toulon on Thursday, Olise found the net twice in the space of just five minutes, showcasing the kind of skill and composure that had many hopeful he would don the green and white of Nigeria.

Olise shines after snubbing Super Eagles

The first goal came in the 51st minute, as the 22-year-old new FC Bayern Munich signing finished off a slick counter-attacking move from close range.

But it was his second strike that truly captured the imagination. Just four minutes later, Olise pounced on a loose ball and unleashed an unstoppable half-volley from around 25 meters, leaving the Dominican Republic goalkeeper with no chance.

Michael Olise at the French under-23 team camp for the Olympics.
Michael Olise at the French under-23 team camp for the Olympics. (Photo Credit: Euro Foot/X)

It's a bittersweet moment for Nigerians especially,, who had been eagerly anticipating Olise's international debut for the Super Eagles.

Olise's goals were part of a comprehensive victory for the French, with Enzo Millot, Alexandre Lacazette (twice), Maghnes Akliouche, and Rayan Cherki also finding the back of the net.

Olise recently put pen to paper for Bayern Munich from Crystal Palace.
Olise recently put pen to paper for Bayern Munich from Crystal Palace.

The result will undoubtedly boost the team's confidence as they continue their preparations for the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris.

For Olise, the decision to represent France over Nigeria was a difficult one, but one he feels is the right path for his career.

Micheal Olise has played for France at under-18s and under-21. || Imago

As he looks ahead to the Olympic Games on home soil, the young attacker will be hoping to use this performance as a springboard to even greater success on the international stage.

Watch the Olise goal here

Olise to Bayern

Meanwhile, the former Crystal Palace man, who recently penned a deal with German giants Bayern Munich, has explained why he swapped the Premier League for the Bundesliga.

The France U-23 international completed a move to Bayern Munich from Crystal Palace for a reported €60 million fee.

Bayern Munich's latest signing, Michael Olise.
Bayern Munich's latest signing, Michael Olise.

Olise was wanted by several top Premier League clubs, including Chelsea and Manchester United.

However, he opted for the record Bundesliga champions and has now put pen to paper for a five-year deal.

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Speaking after the move, Olise explained why he opted for Bayern, stating that the move was exactly what he sought at this stage of his career.

“The talks with FC Bayern were very positive, and I’m very happy to now be playing for such a big club,” Olise said at his unveiling.

Michael Olise
Michael Olise departed Crystal Palace after three years (Imago/News Images) Chelsea have missed out on Michael Olise who scored 10 times in 19 Premier League appearances in 2023-24 (Imago/News Images)

The Bavarians will be happy with that performance from their latest signing and would hope he can bring that form to the Allianz Arena as they look to reclaim their lost glory from Bayer Leverkusen.

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