With the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) just days away, several Super Eagles players put on impressive displays for their clubs across Europe and beyond.
From key goals to match-winning displays, Nigeria’s internationals delivered an impressive weekend that boosts confidence ahead of the continental showpiece.
Super Eagles defenders and midfielders set the tone
Calvin Bassey continues to show why he remains vital to the Super Eagles setup. The Fulham defender grabbed his first goal of the season in a thrilling 3–2 win over Burnley, while also dominating defensively with a match-high 11 duels won.
His performance helped ease Fulham’s relegation worries.
Samuel Chukwueze is also peaking at the right moment. The winger has now recorded six goal contributions in eight appearances this season, showing sharpness and confidence ahead of AFCON 2025.
Alongside him, Alex Iwobi remains a steady presence in Fulham’s midfield, offering balance and experience as Nigeria prepare for the tournament.
Victor Osimhen leads the firepower
Osimhen continued his fine scoring run as Galatasaray secured a commanding 4–1 away win over Antalyaspor in the Turkish Super Lig.
The Super Eagles striker struck in the 56th minute, finishing calmly into the corner after smart movement in the box.
Osimhen has now scored in consecutive league games, taking his tally to six league goals and 12 in 16 appearances across all competitions.
Even with limited touches, his efficiency once again highlighted his importance to both club and country heading into AFCON 2025.
Breakthrough moment for Arokodare
Tolu Arokodare finally ended his Premier League goal drought despite Wolves’ 2–1 defeat to Arsenal.
Introduced in the 69th minute, the Nigerian striker equalised with a close-range finish, becoming the first Nigerian to score a Premier League goal for Wolves.
Although a late own goal sealed Wolves’ defeat, Arokodare’s strike—his first after 11 league matches—offers encouragement.
Akor and Ejuke shine in Spain
Akor Adams delivered one of his best performances in weeks as Sevilla thrashed Real Oviedo 4–0 in the La Liga showdown.
The Super Eagles forward ended his goal drought with an early opener and added two assists, showing strength, pace, and improved link-up play.
Chidera Ejuke also impressed after coming off the bench, scoring late and topping the dribble charts in just 13 minutes.
Their displays added to a positive weekend for Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 hopefuls.
Late heroics highlight Super Eagles quality abroad
Gift Orban was the standout performer as Hellas Verona edged Fiorentina 2–1 in Serie A.
The Nigerian forward came on early, scored within minutes, and later grabbed a stoppage-time winner to seal the victory.
His brace took his season tally to four goals and earned him the MOTM award as Verona continued their fight to move clear of danger.
Rafiu Durosinmi also finished his year strongly, scoring in Viktoria Plzen’s 2–0 win over Dukla Praha.
Despite missing out on a Super Eagles call-up for AFCON 2025, the striker ended the campaign with seven league goals and remains one to watch for the future.
Mixed fortunes for Super Eagles regulars
Cyriel Dessers returned to scoring form as Panathinaikos defeated NFC Volos 2–1.
The striker scored early and won a decisive penalty, showing sharpness after injury. His timing could prove crucial after making Eric Chelle’s final AFCON squad.
Ademola Lookman completed the full 90 minutes but couldn’t grab a goal contribution as Atalanta secured a 2–1 win over Cagliari, while Fisayo Dele-Bashiru featured late as Lazio claimed a narrow victory over Parma despite being reduced to nine men.
However, Kelechi Iheanacho suffered another setback. The forward was forced off before halftime in Celtic’s Scottish League Cup final defeat after a hamstring relapse, explaining his omission from the Super Eagles squad for AFCON 2025.
Super Falcons star also impresses
Away from the men’s game, Super Falcons icon Asisat Oshoala delivered a stunning hat-trick as Al Hilal cruised to a 5–0 win in the Saudi Women’s Challenge Cup.
Her performance once again shows Nigeria’s quality on the global stage, even in women’s football.
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