This past weekend delivered thrilling football action across Europe, with several Nigerian players making significant contributions for their respective clubs. Here’s a roundup of their performances.
Premier League Highlights
In a tightly contested Premier League clash, Alex Iwobi provided a crucial assist as Fulham came from behind to secure a 1-1 draw away to Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. After a goalless first half, Spurs broke the deadlock in the 54th minute, but Iwobi’s pinpoint pass set up Tom Cairney for the equalizer in the 67th minute. This marks Iwobi’s third assist in 13 league appearances this season. Fellow Nigerian, Calvin Bassey, played the full 90 minutes, while Iwobi was substituted in the 86th minute.
Elsewhere, Joe Aribo made a second-half appearance for Southampton in their 1-1 draw with Brighton on Friday, halting a run of back-to-back defeats for the Saints. However, Paul Onuachu missed the game due to injury.
On Saturday, Ola Aina featured for the entire match as Nottingham Forest secured a narrow 1-0 win over Ipswich Town. His compatriot, Taiwo Awoniyi, remained an unused substitute. Meanwhile, Wilfred Ndidi completed 90 minutes for Leicester City in their 4-1 loss to Brentford. Ndidi has been ever-present this season, starting all 13 league matches and registering four assists for the Foxes.
Turkish Super Lig
In Turkey, Victor Osimhen continued to showcase his playmaking ability, delivering an assist in Galatasaray’s 2-2 draw with Eyupspor on Sunday. His setup for Galatasaray’s second goal in the 47th minute gave them a brief lead. The Nigerian striker now has three assists and six goals in eight league appearances since joining on loan from Napoli.
Belgium: Arokodare on Target
In Belgium, Tolu Arokodare found the net for KRC Genk in their 2-2 draw with Sint Truiden. Arokodare opened the scoring in the 26th minute but stirred controversy by celebrating in front of the opposing fans. The 24-year-old continues to impress in the Pro League.
Scottish Premiership
In Scotland, Leon Balogun played a key role in Rangers’ 1-0 victory over St. Johnstone on Sunday. Balogun entered the game as a substitute at the start of the second half. However, his compatriot, Cyriel Dessers, did not feature, remaining on the bench.
Serie A Action
Samuel Chukwueze made a substitute appearance for AC Milan in their commanding 3-0 win over Empoli on Saturday night. The winger replaced Yunus Musah with 15 minutes left to play. Chukwueze has one goal in 13 league appearances this season.
Maduka Okoye was in goal for Udinese during their 2-0 home defeat to Genoa on Sunday. The Nigerian shot-stopper has been ever-present for Udinese, featuring in all 14 Serie A matches this season.
Bundesliga
In Germany, Kevin Akpoguma featured for the full 90 minutes in Hoffenheim’s defeat to Mainz on Sunday. The Nigerian defender has now made 11 league appearances this season, showcasing his reliability in defense.
Ligue 1
In France, Moses Simon played a pivotal role for Nantes in their impressive 1-1 draw against Paris Saint-Germain. The Super Eagles winger, making his 12th league appearance of the season, was on the pitch for 82 minutes as Nantes held the French champions to a stalemate.
