African players continue to light up the biggest leagues, delivering match-winning performances and clutch moments when it matters most. Nigerians held it down for the continent this week, delivering solid performances. These were the standout stars from the past week, from title-chasers to relegation battlers and cup title chasers.
Sadiq Umar (Valencia)
With Valencia deep in a relegation battle, they desperately need a reliable goalscorer—and Sadiq Umar has stepped up. Against Osasuna on Sunday, he played a crucial role in securing a point for his side, scoring twice in a thrilling 3-3 draw.
Sadiq netted Valencia’s second goal in the 32nd minute before delivering a stunning equalizer in the 87th minute. His brace keeps Valencia fighting for survival, as they sit 18th with 24 points.
Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray)
Galatasaray’s push for the Super Lig title continued this weekend with a dramatic 3-3 draw against Kasimpasa. As has become the norm, Victor Osimhen delivered when it mattered, bagging two goals to help his team secure a point.
The Nigerian striker opened the scoring with a penalty in the 12th minute before striking again in the 71st minute to give Galatasaray a 3-2 lead. However, Haris Hajradinovic converted a late penalty to level the match. Osimhen’s brace took him to 16 league goals, just behind Basaksehir’s Krzysztof Piatek (18) in the Super Lig’s top scorer rankings.
Calvin Bassey (Fulham)
Fulham advanced to the FA Cup quarterfinals after a dramatic 4-3 penalty shootout win over Manchester United, and Calvin Bassey played a pivotal role.
The Nigerian defender opened the scoring just before halftime, rising to head the ball past André Onana. But it wasn’t just his goal—Bassey was immense throughout the game. He won 7 out of 9 ground duels, made 7 clearances, 3 interceptions, and 1 tackle in a dominant defensive display. Given his impact, it was a surprise that he didn’t win the Man of the Match award.
Ifeoma Onumonu (Montpellier)
Ifeoma Onumonu was in top form for Montpellier this weekend, registering a goal and an assist in their 4-2 victory over Reims.
The Super Falcons striker assisted Montpellier’s second goal in the 70th minute before getting on the scoresheet herself in the 78th minute. Onumonu leads her team’s scoring charts this season (7 goals) and is second in assists (2 assists), helping Montpellier maintain their sixth-place position in the league standings.
