Nigerians abroad: Osimhen draws closer to Serie A record; Awoniyi, Tijani, Olatunji on target

In a whirlwind Sunday of football action, Nigerian players left their mark on the global stage, featuring in dozens of matches across several different leagues. Here is Soccernet.ng‘s highlight: 

In England, Frank Onyeka showcased his talent for Brentford, playing a crucial 81 minutes in their remarkable upset against Premier League champions Manchester City.

Brentford thus became the only club to achieve a league double over the formidable City, sealing a stunning [1-0] victory.

Meanwhile, Taiwo Awoniyi continued his scintillating form for Nottingham Forest, scoring his tenth league goal of the season in a commendable [1-1] draw against Crystal Palace. Awoniyi has six goals in just four matches this month. 

Alex Iwobi put in an impressive performance for Everton, contributing to their [1-0] triumph over Bournemouth, which ensured their escape from relegation on the final day of the season.

Unfortunately, it was not the same fate for Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi, as Leicester City’s victory against West Ham United [2-1] was insufficient to avoid relegation.

Tijani and Olatunji score; Tolu assists

In Belgium, Tolu Arokodare made a significant impact for KRC Genk, assisting the opening goal in their thrilling [1-3] victory over Club Brugge.

The result intensified the Belgian Pro League title race, adding an element of uncertainty to the competition.

Elsewhere, Victor Boniface appeared as a late substitute for Royale Union Saint Gilloise in their [1-1] draw against Royal Antwerp.

In the Czech Republic, Muhamed Tijani showcased his goal-scoring prowess, finding the back of the net for the 11th time this season for FC Banik Ostrava. Despite his efforts, they fell to a [2-4] defeat against FK Pardubice in the Fortuna Liga.

In Georgia, Oluwadamilare Olatunji emerged as the hero for Samtredia, delivering the decisive goal in their narrow [1-0] victory over Gagra in the Erovnuli Liga.

History beckons Osimhen; Akanbi is a champion

In Italy, Victor Osimhen made a significant stride towards claiming the top scorer title in Serie A, as he netted a brace in Napoli’s exciting [2-2] draw with Bologna.

Osimhen’s impressive tally of 25 league goals places him four goals ahead of his closest rival, Lautaro Martinez.

Should Osimhen maintain this lead in the final game of the season, he will become the first African player to secure the prestigious Serie A top goalscorer award.

In Latvia, Abiodun Ogunniyi delivered a scintillating performance, scoring two sensational goals to lead Auda to a convincing [3-1] victory over Metta in the Virsliga.

Over in Moldova, Iyayi Atiemwen and Rasheed Akanbi celebrated as FC Sheriff secured the Moldovan Cup championship, triumphing over FC Balti in a captivating penalty shootout.

In Spain, Cedric Omoigui displayed his talent for Racing Santander, contributing a goal and an assist in their final Segunda División match, a well-deserved [3-1] victory over FC Cartagena.