This past weekend, several Nigerian footballers abroad displayed their talent, contributing to their clubs’ successes across Europe and the USA. Although some, like Victor Boniface and Kelechi Iheanacho, were unable to score or assist, players such as Victor Osimhen, Moses Simon, and Asisat Oshoala stood out with impressive performances.
Here’s a look at the top Nigerian footballers from the weekend:
Sunday:
- Turkey:
Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray)
Osimhen continued his fine form, scoring a brace in Galatasaray’s 3-2 win over Samsunspor in the Turkish Super Lig. His goal tally is now six goals in six league matches, further establishing him as a key figure at the club. - Czech Republic:
Victor Olatunji (Sparta Prague)
Olatunji scored early in the match against Mlada Boleslav, putting Sparta Prague ahead in the 2-2 draw. This goal adds to his growing influence after his recent Champions League performance. - England:
Josh Maja (West Brom)
Maja scored his ninth goal of the season, leading West Brom to a 2-1 victory over Hull City in the Championship. - Italy:
Ademola Lookman (Atalanta)
Lookman’s efforts were instrumental in Atalanta’s 2-1 victory over Udinese, even though a goal he scored was disallowed by VAR. - Scotland:
Cyril Dessers (Rangers)
Dessers scored the only goal in Rangers’ 1-0 win over Hearts, continuing his strong performances for the Scottish side. - Belgium:
Jordan Torunarigha (Gent)
Torunarigha played a key role in Gent’s dominant 5-0 win over St. Liege, contributing defensively and helping secure a clean sheet. - USA:
Asisat Oshoala (Bay FC)
Oshoala scored Bay FC’s first-ever goal in the NWSL playoffs against the Washington Spirit. Despite the team’s eventual defeat, her contribution was notable.
Saturday:
- England:
Alex Iwobi & Calvin Bassey (Fulham)
Iwobi was named Man of the Match in Fulham’s 2-0 win over Crystal Palace, providing an assist for the second goal. Bassey also impressed with his solid defensive performance. - France:
Moses Simon (Nantes)
Simon scored and assisted in Nantes’ thrilling 3-2 victory over Lens, proving crucial in his team’s success. Hamzat Ojediran (Lens)
Ojediran, a young midfielder for Lens, scored his first Ligue 1 goal in their dramatic 3-2 win against Nantes. - France:
Chiamaka Nnadozie & Ifeoma Onumonu (Paris FC, Montpellier)
Nnadozie made several key saves in Paris FC’s 4-2 victory over Montpellier. Meanwhile, Onumonu scored a brace, showing her attacking prowess.
Turkey:
- Ibrahim Olawoyin & David Akintola (Çaykur Rizespor)
The duo helped Çaykur Rizespor mount a 3-1 comeback victory over Trabzonspor, with their performances crucial in the second-half turnaround.
These performances highlight the growing influence of Nigerian footballers on the global stage, continuing to make significant impacts for their clubs across various leagues.