Nigerian players in Europe scorecard

The top European leagues returned to action this weekend after the UEFA competitions in midweek.

Various Nigerian players were in action for their employers on Saturday. While some put up scintillating shows to steer their sides to victory, others had to make do with the bitter taste of disappointment.

Here is Soccernet’s review of some of those players.

Frank Onyeka

The Nigerian came on for Sergi Canos in the 68th minute of Brentford’s 2-0 victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the English Premier League.

Brentford gaffer Thomas Frank introduced the 23-year-old to shore up things in midfield after Baptiste was sent off in the 64th minute, and he performed excellently, keeping things tight in the middle of the park and preventing Wolves from finding joy upfront.

William Troost-Ekong, Peter Etebo, and Emmanuel Dennis

The three players were involved in Watford’s 3-1 triumph against Norwich City. Emmanuel Dennis became the first player to score Watford’s first home and away goals in a season since Etienne Capoue in 2016. His goal gave Watford the lead, after which Sarr added two goals.

Troost-Ekong was also important in defence and kept it tight at the back. Etebo came on as an 82nd-minute substitute for Tom Cleverly, as coach Xisco Munoz wanted to add fresh legs in his midfield.

Joel Obi and Simy Nwankwo

Obi was introduced at halftime, while Simy was introduced in the 74th minute for Salernitana in their Serie A fixture against Atalanta. However, both of them could not save Salernitana as they suffered an excruciating 1-0 defeat to Atalanta.

Kenneth Omeruo

The Super Eagles defender was in action for Leganes in the Spanish Segunda division. Omeruo played all 90 minutes for Leganes as they secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Amorebieta.

Semi Ajayi 

The Nigerian defender saw all minutes of action in the English Championship. He was part of a three-man defence partnership.

However, the defence was breached once, although Matt Phillips scored for the Baggies to ensure that both sides shared the spoils.

Brian Idowu 

The Nigeria international and Khimki went into the eighth Russian Premier league fixture against FC Ufa, searching for their first win in six games.

However, it wasn’t to be for the former Lokomotiv Moscow man, as FC Ufa scored three, while Khimki could only muster two goals. The loss condemned Khimki to the 16th position, with six points after eight games.

The action continues on Sunday, as Nigerian players try to soar for their teams, and Soccernet has it all covered.