Nigerian footballers plying their trade abroad delivered eye-catching performances over the weekend, with goals and strong displays across England and Turkey as attention gradually shifts to the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Calvin Bassey finally brought an end to his long wait for a goal, scoring for the first time in over 10 months as Fulham edged Burnley 3–2 in a pulsating Premier League encounter at Turf Moor.
The Super Eagles defender powered home a well-taken header from a Harry Wilson delivery to swing the momentum back in Fulham’s favour midway through the first half, marking his first league goal since February.
His display underlined his growing importance ahead of AFCON 2025 preparations.
Alex Iwobi was also in action for Fulham, putting in a solid shift before being substituted as the Cottagers battled to all three points on the road.
Elsewhere, Samuel Chukwueze continued his impressive run of form, maintaining his influence with another decisive contribution to underline his readiness for national duty.
In Turkey, Victor Osimhen signed off in emphatic fashion, finding the net as Galatasaray cruised to a 4–1 win over Antalyaspor. The Super Eagles striker, who had been quiet in his previous outing, made amends with a clinical finish that took his tally to 12 league goals for the season and five against Antalyaspor in just three appearances.
Despite missing out on Nigeria’s final AFCON squad, Tolu Arokodare had his own moment to savour, scoring today to open his Premier League account for Wolves. The striker’s goal was a reminder of his quality and resilience, responding positively to the national team disappointment with a telling contribution for his club.
Overall, it was a productive weekend for Nigerian players abroad, blending goals, grit and form just as the continent’s biggest football showpiece draws closer.
