African players are lighting up pitches across Europe, and this series is dedicated to celebrating their standout performances. From record-breaking moments to game-winning contributions, we highlight the players making waves and proving their mettle every weekend. This week’s list features game winners, clutch performances, and end-of-goal droughts
Kelechi Iheanacho (Middlesbrough)
Kelechi Iheanacho’s career has hit a rough patch in recent years. After leaving Leicester as a free agent, his move to Sevilla didn’t pan out, as he failed to score a single league goal. But a January loan move to Middlesbrough has given him a fresh start. This weekend, he finally broke his league goal drought, scoring his first for Boro in a crucial win against Oxford United. With this confidence boost, he’ll be hoping to go on a scoring run and help Middlesbrough push for a playoff spot.
Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen)
Victor Boniface returned to the scoresheet for Bayer Leverkusen, netting the second goal in their 3-1 win over Bochum. He initially had a goal ruled out for offside but didn’t let that shake him. Moments later, he was in the right place to convert a header across goal from Piero Hincapié, sealing another win for Xabi Alonso’s side.
Rinsola Babajide (Tenerife)
Super Falcons forward Rinsola Babajide played a key role in Tenerife’s 4-1 win over Espanyol. She provided an assist in the 38th minute, and after missing a penalty in the second half, she eventually got on the scoresheet in the 82nd minute. That goal marked her ninth league strike of the season, further cementing her importance to the team.
Omar Marmoush (Manchester City)
Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush wasted no time making an impact in Manchester City’s FA Cup quarter-final clash against Bournemouth. Coming on for Erling Haaland in the 61st minute, Marmoush needed just two minutes to find the back of the net. He took a quick touch from a Nico O’Reilly pass and slotted it past Kepa with his right foot. That goal proved to be the match-winner, sending City into the FA Cup semifinals.
Tolu Arokodare (Genk)
Fresh off his Super Eagles debut, Tolu Arokodare continued his fine form for Genk, scoring in their 4-0 win over Gent. He had an earlier goal ruled out by VAR and even missed a penalty, but he made up for it just five minutes into the second half, netting his 18th league goal of the season.
