Nigerian players in Europe: Brilliant Moses helps Nantes end 20-year trophy drought; Umar strikes again for Almeria

The Yellow Canaries have not lifted a major trophy since 2002, but they have finally broken the jinx

Super Eagles star Moses Simon helped Nantes secure the Coupe de France after a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Nice.

It has been a Cinderella story for the Yellow Canaries this season, as they have gone from struggles last season to becoming one of the most organised teams in France.

They filed out against Nice at the Stade de France for a chance to lift the French Cup. Nice was the slightly better side in the first half, but they lacked composure in the final third. However, Nantes created more chances, opting to catch Nice on the counter.

After a goalless first half, both teams turned the screws in the second period. Within two minutes after the restart, Nantes was awarded a penalty after Nantes midfielder Hicham Boudaoui handled the ball in the box.

Nantes target man Ludovic Blas was on hand to tuck it into the net.

Nice pushed forward for a goal, but they could not produce anything upfront. Moses was brilliant for the Yellow Canaries, posing a danger for the Nice backline and helping with defensive duties.

He had ten crosses and 28 touches and created three chances. However, he was hauled off for Ghanaian international Osman Bukari in the 73rd minute.

Nantes saw off all advances from Nice to see out the 1-0 victory. The win ensured they claimed their first trophy since 2002.

 

Meanwhile, in Spain, it was yet another brilliant performance for Sadiq Umar, as he helped Almeria to a sound 3-0 victory at home to Amorebieta.

After a goalless first half, Almeria increased their intensity, and it paid off in the 54th minute, as they took the lead after Andoni Lopez scored in his net to make it 1-0.

Amorebieta pushed forward, looking for an equalizer, but Almeria took the initiative and doubled their lead through Srdjan Babic in the 75th minute.

Umar had the chance to make it three in the 82nd minute, but his poor penalty failed to find the net. However, the Nigerian forward redeemed himself seven minutes later as he showed great skill and awareness to go past the away side’s defense and score the third for Rojiblancos.

The victory takes Almeria to the summit of the Laliga2, and they need just one more win to secure a spot in the Spanish topflight.