AFCON 2025
Nigerian stars continued to make their mark across Europe’s top divisions this weekend, with standout performances in Hungary and Spain. From Dele Yusuf’s creative masterclass to Akor Adams’ clinical consistency, the “Naija” influence was felt strongly on the scoreboard.
Yusuf Inspires Ferencváros Victory
In the Hungarian NB I, Bamidele “Dele” Yusuf delivered a match-winning performance as Ferencváros secured an impressive 3-2 away victory over Nyíregyháza Spartacus.
Yusuf was the architect of the win, recording one goal and one assist to guide the Hungarian giants through a high-stakes encounter. The versatile forward has been a revelation this season, consistently proving to be a dual threat as both a finisher and a provider on the flank.
Adams Ends Drought in Sevilla Draw
Turning to Spain, Akor Adams was the hero for Sevilla FC, rescuing a point in their 1-1 draw against Rayo Vallecano at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán.
Adams struck late to end a five-match scoring drought, marking his 7th La Liga goal of the campaign. The goal nullified Rayo Vallecano’s lead, ensuring Sevilla maintained their push for a top-half finish.
Fellow Nigerian Chidera Ejuke also featured, coming off the bench for a 23-minute cameo to provide fresh energy in the final stages of the match.
Kayode’s Hattrick Heroics in Bodrum
Larry Kayode delivered the performance of the round in the Turkish TFF 1. Lig, netting a sensational hat-trick to lead Erokspor to a hard-earned 3-2 away victory over Bodrum.
Kayode’s predatory instincts were on full display as he spearheaded the attack, moving his season tally to an impressive 16 goals. His leadership on the pitch was the deciding factor in a match that kept Erokspor’s promotion dreams firmly alive.
Chinedu’s Dream Debut in Samara
In Russia, Geoffrey Chinedu made an immediate impact for his new club, Krylya Sovetov. In a Man of the Match performance, Chinedu opened his account for the club with a clinical brace.
The powerful striker, who recently joined from Astana, showed no signs of needing time to adapt, terrorizing the opposition defense and securing all three points for the Samara-based side.
Osimhen Rules Istanbul Derby
The spotlight of the weekend fell on the “Battle of the Captains” in the Turkish Süper Lig, where Victor Osimhen’s 39th-minute header secured a 1-0 victory for Galatasaray over Wilfred Ndidi’s Besiktas.
Despite Galatasaray being reduced to 10 men, Osimhen’s 11th league goal of the season proved enough to end Besiktas’ 18-game unbeaten run and extend Gala’s lead at the top of the table to seven points.
Salim Fago Strikes
The goals didn’t stop there, as Salim Fago Lawal opened the scoring for Viktoria Plzen in the Czech First Division. His “fine finish” just before the break set the tone for a comfortable 3-0 away win over Hradec Kralove, marking his second goal since joining the club in January.
