Nigerians enjoying great early season form in Europe

Nigerian footballers are making waves across European leagues, showcasing their talent and contributing significantly to their respective clubs’ successes. From Scotland to France, these players are leaving their mark with impressive goal-scoring records and stellar performances. PUNCH Sport Extra’s PETER AKINBO takes a look at some of the standout performers at the early stages of the season

Cyriel Dessers (Rangers)

Leading the charge is Cyriel Dessers, whose performances for Rangers have been nothing short of impressive.

The 29-year-old forward has bagged seven goals and provided three assists across all competitions this season for the Glasgow giants.

His most recent showing came in the Scottish Premiership, scoring twice in a 3-0 win over Dundee FC and taking his tally to three goals in the last five league matches.

With these standout displays, Dessers will be hoping to earn a recall to the Nigeria national team for the upcoming October fixtures.

Josh Maja (West Bromwich Albion)

In the English Sky Bet Championship, Josh Maja has been one of the key contributors for West Bromwich Albion.

The 24-year-old striker has found the back of the net six times this season and assisted once.

After an injury-plagued previous campaign, Maja has made a roaring comeback. His two latest goals came in back-to-back victories over Portsmouth and Plymouth Argyle, further cementing his reputation as a reliable scorer for the Baggies.

West Brom manager Carlos Corberán has heaped praise on the Nigeria international, emphasising his dedication and hard work during the recovery phase. With this form, Maja has placed himself among the top scorers in England’s second tier, and his fans will be hoping he continues to deliver top-draw displays.

Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk)

Another Nigerian forward in hot form is Tolu Arokodare, who has emerged as the joint-leading scorer in the Belgian Pro League. The 23-year-old striker has netted six goals in eight matches for KRC Genk, with his most recent strike coming in their dominant 4-0 victory against Dender.

Arokodare’s spledid form has caught the eye of football enthusiasts, and his performances could provoke a call-up to the Super Eagles. As the season progresses, Arokodare will be looking to maintain his momentum and establish himself as one of Europe’s top emerging forwards.

Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen)

Victor Boniface continues to live his dreams at Bayer Leverkusen, where he has registered four goals and one assist in six matches across all competitions for the Bundesliga champions.

The 23-year-old forward scored a crucial last-minute winner against Wolfsburg in a thrilling 4-3 victory over the weekend. His ability to make an impact in critical moments continues to endear him to the Leverkusen faithful.

Boniface’s energetic displays, coupled with his eye for goal, have made him one of the standout performers in the Bundesliga so far.

Chuba Akpom (Ajax)

Chuba Akpom, who moved to Ajax last summer, has also made an early impression with four goals and one assist in nine Dutch Eredivisie matches.

The former Middlesbrough forward is gradually adapting to the demands of the Eredivisie and has been a key player in Ajax’s frontline. He will be looking to build on his strong start as the season progresses.

Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest)

On the defensive side, Ola Aina has been instrumental in Nottingham Forest’s solid start to the Premier League season.

The Nigerian defender has already helped his side keep two clean sheets, including an impressive 1-0 victory against Liverpool at Anfield.

Aina’s versatility and discipline have made him a key player for Forest. His efforts are not going unnoticed, with Premier League legend Alan Shearer recently naming him in his Team of the Week after the Liverpool match. Aina’s consistent performances have seen Forest maintain a midtable spot, and the club are reportedly keen on extending his contract.

Moses Simon (Nantes)

In France, Moses Simon has continued to deliver for Nantes, having weighed in with two goals and two assists in five games this season.

The Nigerian winger, who is regarded as one of Ligue 1’s most decisive players, was instrumental in his side’s recent 1-1 draw against Angers, assisting for the opening goal.

Rasheedat Ajibade (Atletico Madrid Femenino)

Flying the flag high for Nigeria in women’s football is Rasheedat Ajibade, who has been in scintillating form for Atletico Madrid Femenino.

The Super Falcons skipper has registered two goals and two assists in as many matches, including a standout performance in their 4-0 win over Valencia.

Known for her pace and technical prowess, Ajibade is already on track to surpass last season’s tally of 10 and four assists. Her early form has raised expectations for another outstanding campaign.

Ademola Lookman (Atalanta BC)

Lookman has quickly picked up from where he left off last season for Atalanta in Serie A, contributing two goals and one assist in his first four matches of the season.

The 25-year-old winger continues to torment defenders with his dazzling footwork and clever runs, making him a key component of Gian Piero Gasperini’s attacking setup.

Akor Adams (Montpellier)

Akor Adams has been a revelation in Ligue 1 this season, quickly emerging as Montpellier’s go-to man for goals.

The 23-year-old striker scored the equaliser and winner in a dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Auxerre last weekend, underscoring his potential as a lethal striker.

With three goals already to his name, Adams has shown that he can deliver in crucial moments.

Alex Iwobi (Fulham)

Alex Iwobi has been a reliable creative force for Fulham, adding to his goal contributions with an assist in a 3-1 victory over Newcastle United the last time out.

With that assist, the Super Eagles star surpassed Nwankwo Kanu’s Premier League record for assists by a Nigerian player, setting a new benchmark of 30.

Iwobi’s versatility and vision make him a key player in Fulham’s midfield, where he has managed one goal and one assist this season, and he will be aiming to build on this form as Fulham push for a strong finish this term.

Gift Orban (Olympique Lyon)

Gift Orban, 21, continues to exhibit his goal-scoring prowess for French side Olympique Lyonnais, having already notched two in four league appearances this season, helping his club maintain a strong start to their campaign.

Semi Ajayi (West Bromwich)

Semi Ajayi has been a rock in West Brom backline, helping the Baggies secure four clean sheets in the championship this season.

The 30-year-old centre-back has been key to the team’s defensive solidity, and his leadership at the back has earned him plaudits.