Nigeria Players Abroad
Serie A: Ebenezer Akinsanmiro named Man of the Match in Pisa draw with Fiorentina

By Dayo Awoniyi
Nigerian midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro delivered a standout performance over the weekend, earning the Man of the Match award in Pisa’s goalless draw against Fiorentina in Serie A.
The 20-year-old, currently on loan at Pisa from Inter Milan, commanded the midfield with authority and composure, outperforming high-profile players including Moise Kean and veteran goalkeeper David De Gea.
Akinsanmiro’s assured display — marked by intelligent positioning, sharp distribution, and disciplined defensive work — drew praise from both supporters and analysts, further cementing his status as one of Nigeria’s most promising young talents.
A product of Nigeria’s Remo Stars, Akinsanmiro made the move to Inter Milan in 2023 and was loaned out to Pisa to gain top-flight experience.
His impact has been immediate and impressive, with performances like Sunday’s reinforcing his potential to break into Inter’s senior squad — and eventually the Super Eagles setup.
While the match itself ended without goals, Akinsanmiro’s influence was unmistakable, dictating the tempo and disrupting Fiorentina’s rhythm throughout the contest.
For the Ogun State-born midfielder, the Man of the Match award is not just an individual accolade but a clear statement of intent.
On a night where more established names failed to assert themselves, the Nigerian youngster seized the moment — and the spotlight.
