Nigerians abroad: Ajibade is Cup champion; Utaka, Bamigboye brace up; Sasere hits four

It was another eventful Saturday for Nigerian stars plying their trade abroad as they left their mark in various leagues across the globe.

From Italy to Spain, and even in far-off Liechtenstein, the Nigerian contingent showcased their talent and influence on the game.

Here is Soccernet.ng‘s action-packed highlight from some of these matches.

Iwuala decisive, Olayinka bids stylish farewell

In Algeria, Anayo Iwuala played a vital role in Chabab Belouizdad’s triumph over NC Magra in the Algerian Cup. With a well-timed assist, Iwuala set up the decisive goal that secured a hard-fought [0-1] victory and propelled his team into the final.

Moving to Bangladesh, Peter Ebimobowei stole the spotlight with an impressive brace for Rahmatgonj MFS.

In a closely contested encounter against Muktijoddha SKC, Ebimobowei’s clinical finishing proved to be the difference-maker, securing a gritty [1-2] victory.

Emmanuel Uzochukwu salvaged some pride for the home side, scoring a consolation goal.

Over in Armenia, Nigerian stars showcased their talent in the Premier League.

Christopher Boniface found the back of the net for FC Van, contributing to their triumphant home victory against FC Shirak.

Meanwhile, struggling Noah sprung a surprise as Goodness Igbokwe scored the winning goal in their [2-1] upset over high-flying Ararat-Armenia.

In the Czech Republic, Peter Olayinka bid farewell to Slavia Prague with a remarkable performance in their final game of the season. Olayinka’s impact was undeniable as he helped guide his team to a resounding [4-0] victory over Slovacko.

Fellow Nigerian Igoh Ogbu also played a part in Slavia Prague’s stylish season-ending win.

EPL welcomes Nigerian duo, Ekong nets historic first

Turning our attention to England, Fred Onyedinma and Elijah Adebayo celebrated a historic achievement with Luton Town FC.

Their team secured promotion to the prestigious English Premier League after defeating Coventry City in a thrilling Championship playoffs encounter, ultimately prevailing in a tense penalty shootout.

The duo’s contribution throughout the season proved pivotal in Luton Town’s promotion campaign.

Meanwhile, in the Women’s Super League, Ashleigh Plumptre propelled Leicester City to a hard-fought [0-1] victory over Brighton, securing their place in the Barclays Women’s Super League for another season.

In Italy’s Serie A, Nigerian players left their mark on the field.

Ola Aina made a notable impact as a substitute, helping Torino secure an emphatic [4-0] win against struggling Spezia.

Ademola Lookman also made a significant contribution, albeit in a losing effort, as Atalanta fell to a [2-3] defeat against Champions League finalists Inter Milan.

However, it was William Troost-Ekong who stole the show in Serie A.

The Salernitana defender delivered a match-winning performance, scoring a dramatic 96th-minute goal to secure a hard-earned [3-2] comeback victory over Udinese.

Troost-Ekong’s late heroics marked his first Serie A goal and provided a fitting conclusion to his 73rd appearance in the competition.

In Japan’s J2 League, Peter Utaka shone brightly for Ventforet Kofu, bagging a brace and assisting another in their comprehensive [5-1] demolition of Omiya Ardija.

Bamigboye brace up, Sasere in fourth heaven

Moving to Liechtenstein, Franklin Sasere showcased his incredible goal-scoring prowess as he almost single-handedly powered Vaduz to a stunning [1-6] away triumph over Neuchâtel Xamax.

Sasere’s four-goal haul stunned the opposition and secured a memorable victory for his team.

In Portugal’s Primeira Liga, Bamidele Yusuf made a significant impact coming off the bench for Estoril. His goal in the [3-1] victory over Marítimo sealed an important win for his side and highlighted his knack for finding the back of the net.

Meanwhile, Saviour Godwin and Casa Pia finished their first season in the Portuguese top flight with a narrow [1-0] defeat against Gil Vicente, ending their campaign in 10th place.

In Romania’s Liga 1, Funsho Bamigboye put on a dazzling display, scoring a brace to help Rapid secure a remarkable [1-5] victory over FCSB.

Over in Saudi Arabia, Odion Ighalo showcased his goal-scoring prowess for Al Hilal as they cruised to a comfortable [0-3] victory against Abha.

In Spain, Rasheedat Ajibade was part of Atletico Madrid’s historic Copa de la Reina triumph over bitter rivals Real Madrid.

Although the match ended in a thrilling [2-2] draw after extra time, Ajibade and her teammates held their nerve and emerged victorious in the penalty shootout, securing their third major club title since Ajibade’s arrival in Spain in January 2021.

Lastly, in Tunisia’s Ligue 1, Akpan Ankeye was the hero for Hammam-Sousse as he scored the winning goal in their hard-fought [1-0] victory over Bizertin. Ankeye’s decisive strike ensured his team claimed all three points.

Victor Abata also made a significant impact, netting both goals in Métlaoui’s impressive [2-1] win over Stade Tunisien.