Leopards new men Akolo's Bundesliga audition starts with defeat

In the wake of his maiden Congo DR call-up, midfielder Chadrac Akolo also made his first Bundesliga appearance for Stuttgart.

The midfielder, who was included by Florent Ibenge in his 36-man squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Tunisia, featured for Stuttgart in the 2-0 defeat at Hertha Belin on Saturday.

Akolo was listed amongst the starters for Stuttgart’s season prelim and he lasted 75 minutes before he was replaced by Anastasios 
Donis as Die Roten were undone by a Matthew Leckie brace.

Having moved from Swiss Super League title challengers Sion on a four-year deal, the new Leopards anchorman finds himself in very unfamiliar territory, as he must help Stuttgart sustain their Bundesliga status.

The 22-year-old Kinchasa born notched 15 goals in 34 appearances from midfield last campaign and he will be expected to play an integral for the Hannes Wolf coached side.

There was certainly evidence that Akolo can be a key asset for Stuttgart. The industrious midfielder had some glaring moments during the game and nearly pulled a goal back for the Baden-Wurttemberg side.

Akolo’s arrival will also seem to be a threat to Ghana international Ebenezer Ofori.

Ofori was an unused substitute in the 2-0 defeat against Die Alte Dame.