Several Nigerian footballers abroad gave a very good account of themselves as they helped their respective clubs to gain ground in their domestic leagues.
Some of the top Nigerian footballers who performed excellently for their respective clubs last weekend include Cyriel Dessers, Moses Simon, Paul Onuachu, and Chuba Akpom.
Below are the top-performing Nigerian Footballers Abroad
Cyriel Dessers (Rangers)
Cyriel Dessers showcased his exceptional scoring ability during Rangers’ impressive 5-0 triumph over Fraserburgh in the Scottish Cup, netting a hat-trick that propelled his team into the last 16.
His performance was a testament to his striking instincts; he opened the scoring with a well-placed header from James Tavernier’s corner, followed by a close-range finish after some smart team play, and capped it off with a beautifully executed late goal.
This marks Dessers’ first hat-trick for Rangers since his arrival, bringing his total for the season to nine goals across all competitions.
Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest)
Ola Aina continued to impress as Nottingham Forest clinched a vital 3-2 victory over Southampton. His contributions were pivotal, especially his outstanding assist for Chris Wood’s goal with a pinpoint cross, as well as a crucial goal-line clearance in stoppage time that preserved the win for Forest. Aina’s versatility and defensive prowess continue to shine.
Paul Onuachu (Southampton)
After an eight-month goal drought, Paul Onuachu made a significant impact by scoring with a powerful header from a corner taken by Mateus Fernandes in the final moments of the match. This goal marked a much-anticipated return to form for the striker, whose last goal had come during Besiktas’ Turkish Cup final in May 2024.
Moses Simon (Nantes)
Moses Simon made his mark with an impressive solo goal in Nantes’ 1-1 draw at Saint-Étienne. He opened the scoring with a dynamic run inside from the left, unleashing a powerful left-footed shot into the top corner. Although Nantes could not secure a win after a late equalizer from Austine Boakye, Simon’s effort highlighted his scoring capabilities, bringing his season total to five goals.
Chuba Akpom (Ajax)
Chuba Akpom played a crucial role in Ajax’s 2-0 victory over Heerenveen, helping them close the gap to league leaders PSV.
Coming off the bench, he scored with a well-placed header in the 82nd minute, sealing the win and strengthening Ajax’s position in the league standings, making them the only top-six team to secure a victory this weekend.
Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey (Fulham)
The Nigerian duo of Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey contributed significantly to Fulham’s solid 2-0 away win against Leicester City.
Iwobi was instrumental, coming close to scoring himself and helping create chances, while Bassey’s strong defensive performance was key in maintaining Fulham’s clean sheet, elevating the team’s position to 11th in the Premier League.
Ademola Lookman (Atalanta)
Ademola Lookman displayed his skill with a stunning solo goal in Atalanta’s challenging 3-2 loss to Napoli. His goal, which came from a brilliant run past several defenders, showcased his talent and determination. Despite the defeat, Lookman’s 11th goal of the season emphasizes his continued importance to the team.
Rasheedat Ajibade (Atletico Madrid)
The captain of the Super Falcons, Rasheedat Ajibade, broke an eight-game goal drought with a well-executed strike in Atletico Madrid’s 1-1 draw against Levante Badalona.
Her composed finish from Fiamma Iannuzzi’s pass highlighted her capability, bringing her season tally to six goals despite the missed chance for a full three points.
Edna Imade, Gift Monday (Granada/tenerife)
In a thrilling all-Nigerian matchup, Edna Imade shone for Granada with a stunning long-range goal, leading her side to a 2-1 win against Tenerife. This marked her sixth consecutive game on the scoresheet.
Gift Monday also made her mark with a late powerful strike for Tenerife, bringing her season total to seven goals, although it wasn’t enough to secure a draw for her team.
Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen)
Nathan Tella was instrumental in Bayer Leverkusen’s 3-1 victory over Borussia Mönchengladbach, starting the move that led to Florian Wirtz’s opening goal.
Tella’s tenacity in winning possession was crucial; with this win, Leverkusen retained their position in the title race, staying just four points behind the leaders.
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