Nigerian Stars Shine Across Europe: Iwobi Assists Arsenal, Iheanacho’s Drought Persists, Ambrose Key in Hibernian Victory

Nigeria’s football talents showcased their prowess across various European leagues over the weekend, with significant contributions and missed opportunities marking their performances.

At the Emirates Stadium, Alex Iwobi, in his 16th English Premier League appearance for Arsenal this season, offered a telling assist during their dominant 5-1 victory against Everton. The Nigerian forward crafted a precise pass, enabling Ramsey to secure Arsenal’s third goal in the 19th minute of the match.

Meanwhile, Kelechi Iheanacho, donning the Leicester City jersey, made his third EPL start against Swansea at the King Power Stadium. Although the forward provided an assist for Jamie Vardy’s opener, Iheanacho faced an extended goal drought, remaining scoreless in the English Premier League for 13 months. His last league goal traces back to December 26, 2016, during his tenure with Manchester City against Hull City at the KCOM Stadium.

In the same fixture against Swansea, Wilfred Ndidi, a pivotal midfielder for the Foxes, marked his 25th start but faced frustration as his goal was disallowed for offside.

Across other leagues, notable Nigerian players made appearances with varying impacts. Ola Aina played the full 90 minutes for Hull City in the English Championship, enduring a 2-1 defeat against Preston North End, registering his 27th appearance in the league.

However, Sone Aluko, a forward for Reading, remained on the substitutes’ bench during their 2-0 loss to Millwall in the Championship, despite having made 28 appearances this season.

In the German Bundesliga, Anthony Ujah remained unused for FSV Mainz, who suffered a 2-0 defeat against Bayern Munich, while his compatriot Leon Balogun was omitted from the match day squad. Young Victor Osimhen also faced a bench role throughout Wolfsburg’s 1-1 draw against VfB Stuttgart.

In Italy, Joel Obi secured his 15th appearance for Torino, starting his 10th game, in their 1-1 draw away to Sampdoria.

Noteworthy performances extended to Scotland, where Chidiebere Nwakali made a substitute appearance for Aberdeen in their 3-0 victory over Hamilton Academical. Additionally, Efe Ambrose played a pivotal role in Hibernian’s 2-1 away victory against Rangers, marking his 26th appearance in the Scottish Premiership this season.