Nigerian football players had a successful weekend throughout Europe, winning titles, scoring key goals, and putting on impressive performances.
In Scotland, Celtic F.C. defeated Hibernian F.C. 2-1 thanks to a goal from Kelechi Iheanacho, tying leaders Heart of Midlothian on points. With four goals in six games, his close-range finish completed a successful comeback from injury. Celtic is currently tied for first place ahead of Hearts’ match against Rangers F.C.
Francis Uzoho celebrated league success in Cyprus after AC Omonia defeated Aris Limassol FC 3-0 to win the 2025–26 Cypriot First Division title.
The victory is Uzoho’s first league title since joining in 2021 and puts an end to Omonia’s five-year wait for the domestic championship. Omonia qualified for the UEFA Champions League qualifiers the next season thanks to the goalie’s five league outings and three clean sheets.
Nigerian internationals Igoh Ogbu and Nathan Tella scored vital goals to start the 2025–2026 season.
Ogbu scored as SK Slavia Prague defeated FC Slovan Liberec 2-1, while Tella scored and assisted in Bayer Leverkusen’s 4-1 victory over RB Leipzig. Their performances increase their chances of being chosen for Eric Chelle’s Unity Cup team.
Femi Azeez scored twice for Millwall F.C. against Oxford United F.C., but after Ipswich Town F.C. defeated Queens Park Rangers F.C. 3-0, automatic promotion was lost.
In the play-off semifinals, Millwall will now take on Hull City A.F.C., which includes Semi Ajayi.
After recovering from injury, Zaidu Sanusi helped FC Porto defeat F.C. Alverca 1-0 in Portugal to win the Primeira Liga. Before being substituted before halftime, the left-back made an impressive start.
Other Nigerian Football Players’ Participation in Europe
Moses Simon participated in every minute of Paris FC’s 29–4-0 victory over Stade Brestois in France.
Raphael Onyedika came off the bench in Club Brugge KV’s 3-1 victory over RSC Anderlecht in Belgium, maintaining Brugge’s lead in the fight for the championship.
Peter Olayinka played 67 minutes for APOEL FC in Cyprus as they pursued the championship.
Bruno Onyemaechi was absent from Olympiacos F.C.’s 3-1 loss to PAOK FC in Greece, which left the team trailing leaders AEK Athens F.C.
