It was action-packed for Nigerian footballers abroad over the weekend, with standout performances in England, France, Italy, Turkey, Scotland, and beyond. Here’s a roundup of how the Super Eagles and Super Falcons players fared.
Premier League Action: Goals, Assists, and Injury Concerns
Four Super Eagles players made their mark during the Nottingham Forest vs. Southampton clash on Sunday. Paul Onuachu netted his first Southampton goal in a 2-3 loss. Onuachu, subbed on in the 58th minute, scored in the 91st minute, breaking his drought after 25 appearances for the club in all competitions. Joe Aribo played the full match for the Saints, putting in a solid shift.
On the other side, Nottingham Forest’s duo of Ola Aina and Taiwo Awoniyi played pivotal roles. Aina notched an assist, adding to his tally of two goals and one assist this season, while Awoniyi came on in the 83rd minute to help secure the win.
At Fulham, Alex Iwobi was forced off at halftime due to a knock during their 2-0 win over Leicester City on Saturday. Iwobi has been a key player for Fulham this season, contributing seven goals and three assists. His compatriot, Calvin Bassey, was a rock in defense, playing the full 90 minutes in the victory.
France: Moses Simon on Target for Nantes
In Ligue 1, Moses Simon found the back of the net as Nantes drew 1-1 with Saint-Etienne. Simon scored in the 14th minute, taking his season tally to five goals and five assists in 16 appearances. His consistency remains crucial for the Yellow Canaries.
Italy: Lookman Shines Despite Atalanta’s Loss
Ademola Lookman continued his fine form in Serie A, scoring for Atalanta in their 3-2 defeat to Napoli. The reigning Africa Player of the Year equalized for his side in the 55th minute, bringing his impressive season tally to 10 goals and five assists in 18 league games.
Turkey: Osimhen and Kayode Find the Net
Victor Osimhen delivered once again for Galatasaray, scoring from the penalty spot in a 1-1 draw with Hatayspor on Friday. The 26-year-old now has 11 goals in 14 league games this season, with four goals in his last four appearances.
Meanwhile, Olanrewaju Kayode made an instant impact for Erokspor, scoring the match-winner in a 1-0 victory over Adanaspor. The 31-year-old, who recently joined Erokspor, opened his account just 10 minutes into the second half.
Scotland: Dessers’ Hat-Trick Heroics
Cyriel Dessers stole the show in Scotland, bagging a sensational hat-trick as Rangers demolished Fraserburgh 5-0 to progress to the Scottish Cup’s Round of 16. Dessers also registered an assist, capping off a dominant performance. The Nigerian striker has now scored 16 goals and provided four assists in 33 appearances this season.
Women’s Football: Goals for Plumptee and Ajibade
In Saudi Arabia, Ashleigh Plumptee found the net for Ittihad Ladies, but her goal wasn’t enough to prevent a 2-4 home loss to Al Ahli.
Over in Spain, Rasheedat Ajibade opened her 2025 goal account for Atletico Madrid Femenino in a hard-fought Liga F draw against Levante Badalona.
