Nigeria's Israel Ayuma has expressed his excitement after making his competitive debut for NK Istra 1961 in the Croatian top league against Dinamo Zagrev on Saturday.

Although his team lost 3-1, Ayuma was thrilled to have played for 20 minutes, replacing Mauritanian attacker Beyath Lekweiry in the 70th minute. He noted that the experience gained from playing against a top team like Zagrev will be invaluable in his future endeavors.

"I'm grateful to my coach for giving me the opportunity to play against one of the best teams in Croatia and Eastern Europe," Ayuma said. "Although we lost, I learned a lot from the game, and it will help me going forward."

Sources close to NK Istra revealed that the head coach was impressed with Ayuma's performance, suggesting that he may be given more opportunities in the league.