Joseph Opoku made an instant impression on his Swansea City debut, scoring his first goal for the club as the Swans came from behind to beat Stoke City 2-1 on the opening day of the Championship season.
The Ghanaian winger, who joined Swansea from Belgian side Zulte Waregem this summer, produced a powerful finish to level the contest midway through the first half after Stoke had taken an early lead through Eric Bocat.
Opoku’s goal capped an encouraging first appearance for his new club and helped set Swansea on their way to a memorable away victory.
Adam Idah completed the comeback in the second half, tapping home shortly after being introduced as a substitute.
Reflecting on his debut, Opoku said he was delighted not only with his personal contribution but also with the result for the team.
“I’m really happy with the win, and I’m happy for the team too. It was a great feeling.”
The 20-year-old revealed that he followed instructions from Swansea manager Vítor Matos when making his decisive run into the penalty area.
“The manager always tells me to always arrive late into the box, and when that moment came I just didn’t think twice.”
For Opoku, the goal was a special way to begin his Swansea career, and he is already hoping to experience more occasions like it.
“I really enjoyed it, and I hope for more moments like that.”
The victory was significant for Swansea, who secured their first opening-day league win since 2020. It was also only their third league victory away to Stoke this century.
Opoku was full of praise for the travelling supporters and their contribution to the comeback.
“The fans are just amazing fans, especially travelling all this way on the opening day to watch us. I’m really happy for them, and I really enjoyed the atmosphere.”
The winger also stressed the unity within the Swansea squad, insisting that the team will continue to fight together as the season progresses.
“We are really looking forward to next week now and hopefully we can go and win again.”
With his debut goal already under his belt, Opoku will now be looking to build on a promising start as Swansea prepare to host Sheffield United next in the Championship.
