Football players from Nigeria in diaspora are having a blast this year, with numerous wins and impressive individual achievements complementing their team trophies. These players have made significant contributions to their respective teams, showcasing their talents on an international stage.
Europa League
The most recent standout performance comes from Ademola Lookman, who scored a hat-trick to lead Atalanta to a resounding victory over Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League finals. This win marked Atalanta’s first Europa League title and made them the first Italian side to lift the trophy in several years.
Bundesliga
On the other side of that match, Bayer Leverkusen had an outstanding season themselves, boasting an impressive 51-game unbeaten streak and finishing the Bundesliga season unbeaten. Nigerian striker Victor Boniface played a pivotal role in their success, contributing 14 goals and 8 assists in just 23 games. His stellar performances earned him the Rookie of the Season award, underlining his importance to the team and his bright future in European football.
Greek Super League & Serbian Super Liga
In Greece, William Troost-Ekong, the captain of the Nigerian national team, led PAOK FC to a Greek Super League title. His leadership and defensive skills were instrumental in their triumph. Meanwhile, in Serbia, Peter Olayinka helped Red Star Belgrade secure the Serbian Super Liga title, proving his worth as a key player in their championship run. Similarly, in England, Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi played pivotal roles in Leicester City’s promotion to the Premier League, showcasing their importance to the team’s success.
Championship
In England, Leicester City achieved promotion to the Premier League after winning the Championship, with Nigerian stars Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi playing crucial roles. Their contributions were vital in securing Leicester’s return to the top flight, and they will play significant roles as the club aims to reestablish itself in the Premier League.
Victor Osimhen
Last year, Victor Osimhen’s remarkable achievements cannot be overlooked. Notably, he led Napoli to their first Serie A title in over three decades, an incredible feat that ended a long championship drought. Furthermore, he was named both the Italian Striker of the Season and African Player of the Year. Osimhen’s goal-scoring prowess and all-around play were crucial to Napoli’s success. Additionally, his accolades reflect his standing as one of the top players in the world, underscoring his significant impact on the game.
This has indeed been a phenomenal year for Nigerian football players abroad, with achievements stacking up across various leagues and competitions. Not only have these players brought pride to their clubs, but they have also elevated Nigeria’s status in the football world. Consequently, their accomplishments underscore their hard work, skill, and determination. Furthermore, they continue to inspire the next generation of footballers from Nigeria, demonstrating that Nigerian talent is thriving on the global stage.
