It’s another week of the Game Changers of the Week series, spotlighting African players doing bits in Europe’s major leagues. From goals and assists to solid defensive performances, we’ve got you covered on the continent’s finest.
Alex Iwobi (Fulham) – Nigeria
Iwobi was at the heart of Fulham’s 3–1 comeback win over Brentford. The Nigerian midfielder scored the equaliser and later assisted the second goal, a brilliant pass to Harry Wilson to turn the game around for Fulham. Iwobi is one of the first names on Marco Silva’s starting 11, and every week he shows why
Paul Onuachu (Trabzonspor) – Nigeria
Onuachu continued his strong start to the season in Turkey, scoring his third goal of the campaign to earn Trabzonspor a 1–1 draw with Gaziantep. Latching on to a long pass from goalkeeper Andre Onana, he was able to muscle his way through, lobbing the ball past the Gaziantep goalkeeper.
His physical presence and ability to deliver at crucial moments make him a reliable focal point in attack for the Turkish giants
Noussair Mazraoui (Manchester United – Morocco)
Mazraoui impressed in United’s 2–1 win over Chelsea, delivering a commanding performance at right wing-back. Defensively solid and composed in possession, the Moroccan full-back played a key role in shutting down Chelsea’s wide threats and helping his side secure three points. Mazraoui linked up well with Bryan Mbeumo and showed real aggression all game, winning all 9 of his duels.
Cyriel Dessers (Panathinaikos) – Nigeria
Dessers found the net in Panathinaikos’ heated derby clash with Olympiakos. Though the game ended level, the Super Eagles forward showed sharp instincts in front of goal, timing his run to finish past the goalkeeper, making it two goals in three games for Panathanaikos
Yankuba Minteh (Brighton) – Gambia
The Gambian youngster was impressive for Brighton in their 2-2 draw with Tottenham. He opened the scoring in the 8th minute, running through on goal before rounding Spurs goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario to slot into an empty net. That’s his first league goal of the season, and he’ll be hoping it’s the first of many.
That’s it for this week’s Game Changers. See you next week.
