Nigerians in Europa League: Durosinmi’s Plzen, Dele-Bashiru’s Lazio, Dessers’ Rangers face tricky last-16 ties

Several Nigerian stars remain in the Europa League as the last-16 draw, conducted on Friday, set up some intriguing matchups, Soccernet.ng reports.

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Cyriel Dessers, Leon Balogun, Bruno Onyemaechi, and Rafiu Durosinmi will all be looking to help their clubs secure quarterfinal spots.

One of the standout fixtures sees Super Eagles teammates go head-to-head as Fenerbahce take on Rangers. José Mourinho’s side will rely on the defensive abilities of Osayi-Samuel, while the Scottish giants will count on striker Dessers and centre-back Balogun to make an impact.

Fenerbahce v Lugano UEFA Champions League Second Qualifying Round Manager of Fenerbahce Jose Mourinho in action with Osayi Samuel during the match. Fenerbahce and Lugano faced each other in the UEFA Champions League second qualifying round second leg, the match took place at Sukru Saracoglu Stadium on July 30, 2024. Photo by IMAGO

Bruno Onyemaechi, yet to feature in the competition this season, could make his Europa League debut when Olympiacos face Norwegian outfit Bodo/Glimt.

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Another Nigerian face-off looms as Viktoria Plzen battle Lazio. Plzen, spearheaded by Durosinmi, overcame Ferencváros in the playoffs, but Lazio will counter with their own Super Eagles star, Dele-Bashiru.

Rafiu Durosinmi, Viktoria Plzen. Photo by IMAGO

Meanwhile, AZ Alkmaar — who eliminated Victor Osimhen’s Galatasaray in the previous round — now face Premier League giants Tottenham.

Elsewhere, Ajax will take on Eintracht Frankfurt, AS Roma clash with Athletic Club, FCSB meet Lyon, and Manchester United lock horns with Real Sociedad in a blockbuster tie.

More details shortly.

Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele

Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele turns into a ball of passion when writing about Nigerian football and its talents, whether rising stars or established legends, locally and abroad. From the deepest corners of the Middle East, to the green fields of the Americas, to the celebrated grounds in Europe, and the rich soils of Africa, Imhons is more than glad, usually with a glass of a tasty drink nearby, to capture the essence of the game, by connecting the dots between culture, identity, and football.

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