Top Performing Nigerian Footballers Abroad Last Weekend: Dessers, Iheanacho Shine, Lookman Returns

Nigerian footballers across Europe and beyond made their presence felt over the weekend, with some finding the back of the net while others delivered crucial assists for their clubs.

From Kelechi Iheanacho’s creative spark in Scotland to Cyriel Dessers’ derby strike in Greece, the Nigerian footballers abroad ensured their names stayed in the headlines.

In Scotland, Kelechi Iheanacho was trusted with a starting role as Celtic faced Partick Thistle in the Scottish League Cup.

The forward, who only recently joined the Bhoys, provided a neat assist in the 46th minute to keep his side firmly in control.

He played 59 minutes before making way for Daizen Maeda, and Celtic wrapped up a comfortable 4-0 victory. His sharp link-up play was a reminder of the quality that once made him a Premier League star.

Over in Italy, Ademola Lookman finally returned to action for Atalanta after missing the start of the Serie A season. The winger came off the bench late in the 3-0 win at Torino.

Though he did not have enough time to influence the scoreline, his return was a welcome sight for Atalanta fans still recovering from the midweek defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.

The drama was livelier in Greece, where Cyriel Dessers delivered for Panathinaikos in their heated derby against Olympiakos.

The striker gave the home fans something to cheer about with a well-taken finish in the 48th minute, his first league goal of the season.

His celebration was cut short, however, when Olympiakos found a stoppage-time equaliser to snatch a 1-1 draw.

In Belgium, Raphael Onyedika continued his fine run with Club Brugge. Just days after scoring in the Champions League against Monaco, the midfielder put in a commanding display in the Jupiler League as Brugge defeated St. Truiden 2-0.

He was solid throughout the 90 minutes, even picking up a late booking for his aggressive play, underlining the tenacity he brings to the side.

There was also action in England, where Chiamaka Nnadozie stood tall for Brighton in the Women’s Super League. The Super Falcons goalkeeper was beaten only by a penalty as Brighton stormed to a 4-1 victory over West Ham.

Goals from Caitlin Hayes, Kiko Seike, Rosa Kafaji and Marisa Olislagers secured the points, but Nnadozie’s composure at the back gave her team the platform to dominate.

Meanwhile, in France, Moses Simon was busy for Paris FC as they tried to fight back against Strasbourg. The winger had four shots and stretched the defence with his direct runs, but luck deserted him on the day.

He was substituted in the 69th minute, and ironically, his replacement Nouha Dicko went on to score and assist in the 3-2 defeat. Simon still boasts two goals and an assist already this season, a sign that he remains an important figure for his side.