Shortly before the second international break of the European League season, a handful of Super Eagles players played pivotal roles in their clubs’ weekend victories. Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi, with a goal and an assist, spearheaded their team’s attack, while Victor Boniface continued to set the German Bundesliga ablaze with his remarkable goal-scoring prowess. Here is a recap of Nigerian Stars’ performances over the weekend.
Italy
Victor Osimhen
Despite Victor Osimhen’s notable contribution, which included a goal during his 77-minute appearance for Napoli, they were unable to prevent a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Fiorentina at the Diego Maradona Stadium. Fiorentina showed a dominant performance throughout the match, securing a well-deserved 3 points. This defeat leaves the defending champions Napoli in the fifth position in the Italian Serie A league table.
Ademola Lookman
A goal-laden display was seen at the Stadio Olimpico stadium, featuring a total of five goals. Despite Ademola Lookman’s impactful 30-minute cameo, Lazio emerged victorious over Atalanta;this defeat saw Atalanta remain in sixth position on the Serie A table.
Samuel Chukwueze
Samuel Chukwueze made a 45-minute appearance for AC Milan in their victory against Genoa, after which he was substituted for goal scorer Christian Pulisic. During the first half, Chukuweze showcased his potential with a promising cross that set up Okafor for what should have been a close-range finish, but unfortunately, Okafor missed the opportunity. After his summer move. Chukuwueze is still struggling to command a starting shirt in the Milan lineup.
Isaac Success
Isaac Success, a former U17 international who has been out of favor with the Super Eagles, made a notable appearance with his energy and pace as a 63rd-minute substitute during The Little Zebras’ 0-0 draw against Empoli at the Casto Castellani Stadium. Still, Success’ positive attitude on the pitch of play couldn’t help Udinese pick up 3 points.
France
Terem Moffi
Terem Moffi once again was without his scoring boots in his third consecutive game in their 1-0 win against Metz at the Allianz Riviera. Moffi was on the pitch for 67 minutes before being replaced by Evan Guessand
Moses Simon
Moses Simon’s full 90 minutes on the pitch at the Stade de La Meinau proved pivotal in Nantes’ 2-1 victory over Strasbourg. His midfield performance played a significant role in securing all three points for Nantes.
Germany
Victor Boniface
In the Rhine Derby, the battle for supremacy between Bayern Leverkusen and Koln was claimed by Leverkusen, and once again, Victor Boniface took center stage in his team’s triumph. Boniface initiated the pivotal play for Leverkusen’s opening goal, holding up play from 25 yards out before delivering a precise pass to the left wing, where Alex Girmado found Wirtz, ultimately setting up Hofman for the goal.
Then, in the 67th minute, Hofman and Frimpong orchestrated a devastating counterattack, with Hofman skillfully placing the ball across the 6-yard box to set up Victor Boniface for Leverkusen’s third goal of the match. This victory leaves Leverkusen undefeated, securing their position at the top of the Bundesliga.
England
Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi
Leicester City’s championship dominance continued as Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi once again played pivotal roles in their weekend triumph. Iheanacho proved to be a constant thorn in Stoke’s side, consistently creating gaps in the heart of their defense, particularly between J. Laurent and L. McNally.
The Foxes’ first goal unfolded through a seamless combination of Ricardo Pereira and Dewsbury Hall, culminating in Kelechi Iheanacho’s close-range finish that left goalkeeper Travers helpless. Then, in the 79th minute, Wilfred Ndidi turned provider, setting up Jamie Vardy’s goal that solidified the victory at the King Power Stadium.
Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey
Alex Iwobi earned his first start for Fulham since moving from Everton, making a significant contribution as the Cottagers clinched a 3-1 victory against Sheffield United. Iwobi showcased his skills for a commendable 79 minutes at Craven Cottage before getting substituted for Harrison Reed. Additionally, Calvin Bassey got into the fray in the 71st minute, stepping in for the injured Issa Diop to help secure the win.
Frank Onyeka
Onyeka w as a second-half substitute in the 70th minute for Thomas Frank’s Brentford. The Bees were determined to preserve their hard-fought 1-0 lead, which they had held since the 26th minute. However, late drama unfolded as Manchester United snatched up all three points at Old Trafford.
Spain
Sadiq Umar
Sadiq Umar’s ongoing battle with full fitness and securing a starting position for Real Sociedad continued over the weekend. He was brought on as a substitute in the closing minutes of their match against Atletico Madrid, but there was little he could do to prevent Atletico Madrid from clinching a 2-1 victory.