Leon Balogun's World Cup debut ended in painful defeat in Russia tonight.
Albion's new central defender recovered from injury to take his place in the Nigeria side against Croatia.
He could do little to prevent the Super Eagles losing 2-0 to Croatia n Kaliningrad.
Balogun suffered a bloody nose in the first half when he was caught with an elbow by Domagoj Vida in an aerial battle inside the Croatia box.
Nigeria fell behind in unfortunate fashion in the 32nd minute, Mario Mandzukic's diving header from a corner inadvertently deflecting in off Stoke's new midfield signing Oghenekaro Etebo.
Croatia (above) were gifted a second in the 71st minute when Balogun's partner, William Troost-Ekong, wrapped his arms around Mandzukic from another corner, right in front of the referee.
Luka Modric converted the resulting penalty to seal Nigeria's fate.
Balogun acquitted himself well, despite the result. He defended soundly, looked comfortable in possession and could not be blamed for either of the goals, although Nigeria proved vulnerable from corners again after conceding via the same route in a pre-World Cup friendly against England at Wembley.
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