Osimhen, Iwobi Lead Nigerian Scoring Surge Across European Leagues
Nigerian footballers delivered standout performances across Europe this weekend, with Victor Osimhen scoring for Galatasaray, Alex Iwobi netting his second consecutive goal for Fulham, and Paul Onuachu extending his scoring streak to six matches for Trabzonspor.
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Victor Osimhen scored and assisted as Galatasaray defeated Alanyaspor 3-1 on Saturday, maintaining the Turkish champions' title push. The Super Eagles striker found the net at RAMS Park days after helping his side qualify for the UEFA Champions League Round of 16, a milestone the club had not reached in 12 years, according to Soccernet Nigeria.
Osimhen refuted speculation about his happiness at the club following the match. "The first Beşiktaş, then Liverpool," he told reporters, urging teammates to stay focused as Galatasaray prepares for crucial fixtures ahead. Turkish analyst Uğur Meleke told Soccernet Nigeria it would not be surprising if Osimhen moved to a major European club after his spell in Turkey, calling him "better than Gyökeres."
In the Premier League, Alex Iwobi scored his second consecutive league goal as Fulham beat Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 at Craven Cottage on Sunday. Harry Wilson opened scoring in the seventh minute before Iwobi added to Fulham's tally, pushing Marco Silva's side closer to European qualification, Complete Sports reported. The Cottagers have won three straight matches since a 3-0 loss to Manchester City two weeks ago.
Paul Onuachu extended his scoring streak to six consecutive matches for Trabzonspor in their 3-1 victory over Fatih Karagümrük on Friday. The 31-year-old striker opened scoring before assisting compatriot Chibuike Nwaiwu, who netted twice in the match. "I value my teammates," Onuachu told reporters, crediting the squad for his record run, according to Soccernet Nigeria.
Other Nigerian players also found success across European competitions. Terem Moffi came off the bench to score his first goal for Porto in their 3-1 win over Arouca, while Noah Adedeji-Sternberg and Yira Sor both scored in Genk's 3-0 victory against Gent in the Belgian Jupiler League. Adedeji-Sternberg's strike marked his first league goal this season, Complete Sports reported.
Galatasaray will face Liverpool in the Champions League Round of 16, setting up a marquee clash between Osimhen and the Reds' defense. Former Super Eagles midfielder Ogenyi Onazi criticized Manchester United for failing to sign Osimhen, dismissing the club's concerns over Africa Cup of Nations commitments as invalid, Soccernet Nigeria reported.