It was a weekend of mixed fortunes for Nigerian footballers in Europe, with Alex Iwobi and Victor Osimhen producing decisive moments for their respective clubs.
At Craven Cottage, Fulham’s Alex Iwobi underlined his status as the team’s creative hub in a 1-1 draw against Manchester United. The Super Eagles midfielder provided the assist for Emile Smith Rowe’s equaliser and was a constant attacking threat throughout the match, registering three shots and orchestrating Fulham’s forward play.
Iwobi, 28, has now been directly involved in 16 Premier League goals since the start of last season—more than any other Fulham player—with nine goals and seven assists. His compatriot Calvin Bassey, though not on the scoresheet, played a crucial defensive role. Interestingly, all four of Fulham’s goals in their last five meetings with Manchester United have featured either Iwobi or Bassey.
In Turkey, Victor Osimhen opened his league account for Galatasaray with a late winner against Kayserispor. The Nigerian striker struck in the 86th minute, latching onto a Nicolo Zaniolo cross to secure a 1-0 victory away from home.
Osimhen, the 2023 CAF African Footballer of the Year, was a constant menace for the hosts, attempting six shots and displaying the ruthless finishing that made him one of Europe’s deadliest strikers during his Napoli days.
Meanwhile in Portugal, Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi featured in FC Porto’s emphatic 4-0 win over Casa Pia. Although he did not register a goal contribution this weekend, Sanusi had earlier provided an assist against Gil Vicente, reinforcing his growing influence in Porto’s setup.
With Iwobi pulling strings in England, Osimhen off the mark in Turkey, and Sanusi continuing to impress in Portugal, Nigerian stars once again left their footprints on Europe’s football stage.
