The 2023/24 season has started on a high note for many Nigerian players across various leagues.
Some have adapted quickly to their new clubs, while others are still finding their rhythm.
As the leagues pause for international duty, with the Super Eagles preparing for their double-header against Libya, let’s take a look at the Nigerian players who have made the most goal contributions so far this season.
Cyriel Dessers – 7 Goals, 3 Assists
Cyriel Dessers. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
In 12 matches across all competitions, Cyriel Dessers has racked up 10 goal contributions, a strong start for the Rangers forward.
He’s currently the joint top goal scorer for his club in the league with 3 goals, and his form has been instrumental in keeping Rangers in third place on the Scottish Premiership table.
Despite his hot form, Dessers was overlooked for Nigeria’s recent AFCON qualifiers in September and has also been excluded from the upcoming October matches against Libya.
While his contributions at the club level are undeniable, he will have to continue his stellar performances to catch the attention of the national team selectors.
Victor Boniface – 6 Goals, 1 Assist
Victor Boniface. (Photo by Joris Verwijst/BSR Agency/Getty Images)
Victor Boniface is enjoying a great start to the season under Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso.
With 6 goals and 1 assist in 9 matches, he has emerged as one of Leverkusen’s key players, even sharing the title of joint top goal scorer in the league with Florian Wirtz.
Boniface’s sharpness and work rate have earned him praise, with Alonso expressing a desire to further develop Boniface’s game, especially his play outside the box.
Last season, Boniface was instrumental in Leverkusen’s domestic success, helping them win the league and the German Cup, despite missing three months due to injury.
His current form has drawn the attention of top clubs across Europe, and it seems his stock is on the rise.
Tolu Arokodare – 6 Goals
Genk’s Tolu Toluwalase Arokodare. (Photo by JOHAN EYCKENS / BELGA MAG / Belga via AFP)
Tolu Arokodare has been a key player for Genk this season, scoring 6 goals and helping his side stay at the top of the Belgian Pro League.
The young forward has shown remarkable improvement and consistency, though he is still waiting for a call-up to the Nigerian national team.
Chuba Akpom – 5 Goals, 1 Assist
Chuba Akpom. (Photo by ANP via Getty Images)
Chuba Akpom has made a solid start at Ajax, contributing 5 goals and 1 assist.
His sharp finishing and link-up play have made him a valuable addition to the Dutch side.
Despite his performances, Akpom has yet to receive a call-up to the Super Eagles, but his form could see him break into the squad soon.
Ademola Lookman – 3 Goals, 3 Assists
Ademola Lookman celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Torino FC at Gewiss Stadium. (Photo by Image Photo Agency/Getty Images)
Ademola Lookman has been in scintillating form for Atalanta this season, with 3 goals and 3 assists in 7 matches.
Lookman’s consistent performances have earned him a nomination for the Ballon d’Or and have made him a favorite for the African Player of the Year award.
His vision and creativity have been key for Atalanta as they push for a top-four finish in Serie A.
Victor Osimhen – 2 Goals, 4 Assists
Victor Osimhen. (Photo by Abdulhamid Hosbas/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Victor Osimhen has hit the ground running at Galatasaray, on loan from Napoli, with 2 goals and 4 assists in just 4 matches showing why he’s considered one of Africa’s top strikers.
Unfortunately, Osimhen is currently sidelined with an injury and will miss Nigeria’s upcoming AFCON qualifiers.
Reports suggest he’ll be out for six weeks, but back in no time, ready to score goals again.
Moses Simon – 2 Goals, 2 Assists
Nantes winger, Moses Simon celebrates.
Moses Simon has been consistent for FC Nantes, contributing 2 goals and 2 assists in 7 matches.
His experience makes him a valuable asset for both his club and the Nigerian national team.
William Troost-Ekong – 2 Goals
William Troost-Ekong celebrates his first goal for Al-Kholood. Photo | X
William Troost-Ekong, the rock at the back has found the back of the net twice for his new club Al Kholood in Saudi Arabia.
Ekong’s aerial threat on set pieces has always proven valuable.
He continues to be a key figure for Nigeria’s national team, bringing leadership and experience to the backline.
Wilfred Ndidi – 1 Goal, 4 Assists
Wilfred Ndidi is challenged by Adam Wharton during a Premier League match. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Wilfred Ndidi, playing as a more advanced midfielder for Leicester City this season, has contributed 1 goal and 4 assists in 8 matches.
He has quickly adapted to his new role and has become the top assist provider for his team this season.
Ndidi remains a crucial figure after extending his contract with the club to stay this season.
Alex Iwobi – 1 Goal, 1 Assist
Alex Iwobi. (Photo by Alex Broadway/Getty Images)
Alex Iwobi, with 1 goal and 1 assist in 9 matches, now holds the record for the most assists by a Nigerian player in Premier League history, surpassing Nwankwo Kanu.
Iwobi continues to be a vital creative force for Fulham in the Premier League.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru – 1 Goal, 1 Assist
Lazio’s Nigerian midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru celebrates scoring during the UEFA Europa League football match against Dynamo Kiev. (Photo by AXEL HEIMKEN/AFP via Getty Images)
On loan at Lazio, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has impressed with 1 goal and 1 assist in 5 matches.
His dynamic performances in midfield have earned him praise, and after missing out due to injury in September, he is back in the Super Eagles squad for the upcoming international fixtures.
Chidera Ejuke – 1 Goal
Chidera Ejuke celebrates his team’s goal during the LaLiga match between Athletic Club and Sevilla FC at Estadio de San Mames. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
Chidera Ejuke is settling well in Sevilla after joining the club this summer. He has contributed a goal for the Spanish side as making impact.
Ejuke, who last featured for Nigeria during the 2022 AFCON campaign, is now back in the squad, and will look to impress during the upcoming qualifiers.
Bruno Onyemaechi – 1 Goal
Bruno Onyemaechi celebrates after scoring a goal during the Liga Portugal match between CF Estrela da Amadora and Boavista FC at Estadio Jose Gomes. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)
Bruno Onyemaechi has been solid for Boavista this season, contributing 1 goal in 8 matches from defence.
His performances earned him a call-up to Nigeria’s squad for both the September and October AFCON qualifiers, and he’ll be looking to cement his place in the team.
