AFCON 2025
Five Nigerian players are set to carry the country’s flag in the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League, with each of them handed tricky fixtures that could define their campaigns on Europe’s biggest stage.
Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray)
All eyes will be on Osimhen after his record-breaking switch from Napoli to Galatasaray. The Turkish giants open their campaign away to Eintracht Frankfurt on September 18 before hosting Liverpool in Istanbul on September 30, a clash that will test Osimhen against one of Europe’s best backlines.
Matches against Bodø/Glimt (October 22) and Ajax (November 5) could determine Galatasaray’s fate, and Osimhen’s goals will be vital if they are to reach the knockouts.
Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge)
The midfield enforcer will be key to Club Brugge’s resilience as they navigate a tough schedule. Onyedika’s grit and discipline will be put to the test in away games like the January 20 trip to Kairat Almaty, while earlier group fixtures against more established European sides will give him the chance to showcase his growing reputation as one of Nigeria’s most reliable holding midfielders.
Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos)
Onyemaechi heads into his first Champions League campaign eager to prove himself. Olympiacos face a stern examination when Leverkusen visit Piraeus on January 20, where the Nigerian full-back is likely to be tested by Boniface and Tella. His earlier group fixtures will also be crucial, offering him the opportunity to show that he can handle the pace and pressure of continental football.
Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen)
Tella could become Leverkusen’s X-factor from the bench. The Nigerian winger will hope to make his mark in key matches such as the home tie against PSV and the headline showdown with Manchester City.
