Simon’s impressive form this season has been crucial for Nantes, and his nomination for the Goal of the Month award further highlights his impact.

With the NFF looking to integrate more home-based players into the national setup, President Ibrahim Gusau earlier stated the importance of domestic talent development.

However, Nigeria’s absence from the continental showpiece means they will also miss out on the global tournament.

Football and life are about timing. This time, Awoniyi finds himself watching as someone else takes their chance.

Ijamilusi, 23, played a crucial role in Edo Queens’ success, finishing as the league’s top scorer with eight goals in the 2023/24 NWFL Premiership season.

However, facing a suspension from the first team, Osimhen forced a move on loan to Turkey with Galatasaray until the end of the season.

Marseille signed the defender as a 20-year-old from Nigerian League side Lobi Stars in January of 2005.

While Murphy stole the spotlight, 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, another player of Nigerian descent, made an important contribution to Arsenal.

With this goal, Boniface has now hit double digits for the second straight season, scoring ten goals across all competitions.

Goals from Jacob Murphy and Anthony Gordon ensured Eddie Howe’s men advanced, leaving Newcastle just one step away from ending their 56-year wait for a major trophy.