It was another exciting weekend for Nigerian footballers across various leagues, with many finding the back of the net or delivering match-defining performances. Here’s a recap of the top highlights:
Cyriel Dessers – Hat-Trick Hero
Cyriel Dessers stole the spotlight in Rangers’ 5-0 demolition of Fraserburgh in the Scottish Cup on Sunday.
Handed a rare starting role by manager Philippe Clement, Dessers redeemed himself after missing a golden opportunity in the 6th minute by opening the scoring in the 27th.
The Super Eagles striker went on to deliver a sensational hat-trick, scoring his second in the 57th minute and sealing the victory with a 90th-minute strike.
In addition to his three goals, Dessers provided an assist, showcasing his all-around attacking prowess. Goals from Clinton Nsiala and Ross McCausland completed the rout as Rangers progressed to the Round of 16.
Ola Aina – Defensive and Offensive Masterclass
Super Eagles defender Ola Aina was instrumental in Nottingham Forest’s 3-2 win over Southampton.
Known for his defensive resilience, Aina showed his attacking side with a brilliant assist for Chris Wood’s goal, delivering a precise cross that was headed into the net.
Aina also saved Forest from conceding with a crucial goal-line clearance, his second of the week after a similar effort against Liverpool.
His performance underlined his importance to Nuno’s side as both a defensive rock and an attacking asset.
Chuba Akpom – Super Sub for Ajax
Chuba Akpom made his mark off the bench in Ajax’s 2-0 Eredivisie win over Heerenveen.
Introduced in the 73rd minute, the 29-year-old striker rose to the occasion, heading home Ajax’s second goal from a corner to seal the victory.
The goal marked Akpom’s third of the season and helped Ajax maintain pressure on PSV Eindhoven in the title race.
Paul Onuachu – First Premier League Goal
Paul Onuachu finally broke his scoring duck for Southampton, netting his first Premier League goal in their 3-2 loss to Nottingham Forest.
Coming on as a second-half substitute, the towering forward scored a late header in the 91st minute, a small consolation in a hard-fought game.
Onuachu’s goal showcased his potential to be a decisive figure for the Saints as they battle to climb the table.
Moses Simon – Reliable for Nantes
Moses Simon continued his fine form for Nantes, scoring in their 1-1 draw against Saint-Etienne. The Nigerian winger opened the scoring in the 14th minute with a composed finish, taking his tally to five goals and five assists in 16 league appearances this season.
Simon remains a key player for Nantes as they fight to climb out of the relegation zone.
Ademola Lookman – Consistency in Serie A
Ademola Lookman’s incredible form in Serie A continued despite Atalanta’s 3-2 loss to Napoli.
The winger scored a stunning goal in the second half to level the game, becoming the first player to score at least 10 goals in Serie A for three consecutive seasons.
With 10 goals already this season, Lookman’s consistency and ability to deliver in big games have solidified his reputation as one of the league’s most reliable scorers.
