It was a weekend of standout performances for Nigerian footballers across Europe, with goals, silverware, and heroic displays highlighting their contributions for their clubs
Lookman Ends Goal Drought in Italy
In Serie A, Ademola Lookman returned to the scoresheet in style, netting his first goal in two months as Atalanta dismantled Monza 4-0 at the U-Power Stadium. The Nigerian forward struck early in the second half, latching onto Mateo Retegui’s long ball and beating the goalkeeper at the near post. It was his 14th goal in 29 appearances across all competitions for Gian Piero Gasperini’s side this season.
Meanwhile, Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye helped Udinese break their winless streak with a 2-1 victory over Cagliari. Okoye, now with 22 league appearances this season, put in a solid performance between the sticks.
Dessers Delivers in Scottish Showdowns
In Scotland, Cyriel Dessers continued his rich vein of form with a goal in the fiercely contested Old Firm derby as Rangers and Celtic played out a 1-1 draw at Ibrox. The striker also found the net in a 2-2 draw against St. Mirren, taking his tally to 22 goals and five assists in 50 games across all competitions.
Osimhen’s Scoring Spree Continues in Turkey
Victor Osimhen was at it again in Turkey, bagging a brace in Galatasaray’s commanding 4-1 win over Sivasspor. The prolific striker now boasts 24 goals in 27 league games and 33 goals in 37 matches overall this season—underlining his status as one of Europe’s elite finishers.
Mixed Fortunes for Nigerians in the Premier League
Wilfred Ndidi and Paul Onuachu faced off in Leicester City’s 2-0 victory over Southampton in the Premier League. Ndidi played the full 90 minutes for the Foxes in his 26th league appearance, while Onuachu featured for Southampton, marking his 24th outing of the season. Both clubs, however, have already been relegated to the Championship.
At Villa Park, Fulham duo Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey were in action during a narrow 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa. Iwobi was subbed off in the 76th minute, while Bassey played the entire match in the Matchday 35 encounter.
Ejuke and Onyeka See Action in Spain and Germany
In La Liga, Chidera Ejuke came off the bench in the 84th minute as Sevilla drew 2-2 with Leganes. The midfielder has now made 23 appearances this season, contributing two goals and one assist.
Over in the Bundesliga, Frank Onyeka started for Augsburg in their 3-1 home loss to Holstein Kiel. He was substituted in the 79th minute after a tough outing.
Onyedika Lifts Belgian Cup with Club Brugge
Raphael Onyedika added silverware to his season, helping Club Brugge secure a 2-1 win over Anderlecht in the Belgian Cup final. The midfielder featured for 74 minutes and played a key role in the club’s triumph.
Nnadozie the Hero in Coupe de France Feminine
In women’s football, Chiamaka Nnadozie was the star as Paris FC won the Coupe de France Feminine, edging out PSG 5-4 on penalties after a goalless draw. The Super Falcons goalkeeper made two stunning saves during the shootout, clinching the title for Paris FC for the second time in their history.
