Nigerian players delivered standout performances across Europe over the weekend, with several Super Eagles stars playing decisive roles for their clubs in league and cup competitions.
Osimhen Inspires Galatasaray to Turkish Super Lig Glory
In Turkey, Victor Osimhen was the hero as Galatasaray defeated Antalyaspor 4-2 in a thrilling contest at RAMS Park to clinch the Turkish Super Lig title. Osimhen scored twice as Galatasaray secured the league crown for the fourth consecutive season. The Nigerian striker equalised for the hosts from the penalty spot in the 66th minute before adding his second goal in the 88th minute to seal the victory. Osimhen has now recorded 15 goals and five assists in 22 league appearances for the Yellow and Reds this season.
Umar Sadiq Fires Valencia Past Athletic Bilbao
In Spain, Umar Sadiq scored the winning goal as Valencia defeated Athletic Bilbao 1-0 away from home in their La Liga clash on Sunday. The Nigerian international came on in the 70th minute and scored the decisive goal just two minutes later. The 29-year-old has now netted four goals in 17 league appearances for Valencia this season.
Akor Adams Seals Dramatic Win for Sevilla
Elsewhere in Spain, Akor Adams scored the winner for Sevilla in their 2-1 home victory over Espanyol on Saturday night. Adams came off the bench and curled home a stunning strike from outside the box in stoppage time to secure victory for the Rojiblancos. The Nigerian forward has now registered nine goals and three assists in 29 league appearances for Sevilla this season.
His compatriot, Chidera Ejuke, was also in action for Sevilla and played the full 90 minutes.
Lookman Features in Atletico Madrid Defeat
Ademola Lookman was in action for Atletico Madrid as they suffered a 1-0 home defeat to Celta Vigo. The Nigerian forward played 60 minutes in the encounter.
Okereke Scores in Cremonese Victory
In Italy, David Okereke found the net for Cremonese as they defeated Pisa 3-0 in their Serie A clash on Sunday. Okereke came on in the 72nd minute and scored Cremonese’s third goal four minutes from time. It was his second goal of the season.
Meanwhile, Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru played the full 90 minutes for Lazio in their 3-0 defeat to Inter Milan on Saturday. The Nigerian international, making his 22nd league appearance of the season, is yet to register a goal or assist for Lazio in the league campaign.
Bassey, Chukwueze Feature in Fulham Defeat
In England, Calvin Bassey and Samuel Chukwueze featured as Fulham suffered a 1-0 home defeat to Bournemouth on Saturday. Bassey played the entire match, while Chukwueze was replaced by Kevin in the 62nd minute. Alex Iwobi missed the game for Marco Silva’s side due to injury.
Iheanacho, Fernandez Clash in Old Firm Derby
In Scotland, Nigerian internationals Kelechi Iheanacho and Emmanuel Fernandez featured for Celtic and Rangers respectively, as Celtic claimed a 3-1 victory over their fierce rivals Rangers on Sunday. While Iheanacho came on in the 81st minute, Fernandez played the full 90 minutes for Rangers.
Nnadi Helps Marseille Edge Le Havre
In France, Nigerian midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi was in action for Marseille as they edged Le Havre 1-0 in Sunday’s Ligue 1 encounter. The Nigerian international, who was making his seventh appearance of the season, has recorded one assist for Marseille so far this campaign.
Nnadozie Reaches Historic FA Cup Final
In women’s football, Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie was in action as Brighton & Hove Albion Women came from two goals down to defeat Liverpool Women 3-2 and reach their first-ever Women’s FA Cup final. Nnadozie is expected to be in goal for Brighton when they face Manchester City Women in the final at Wembley on May 31.
