Nigerian footballers were active across Europe this weekend and produced a series of performances that kept the Super Eagles firmly in the conversation ahead of next year’s AFCON. From a late Chukwueze assist in the Premier League to a dramatic redemption arc for Awaziem in Ligue 1 and injury updates that could shape Nigeria’s defensive options, the weekend provided a layered narrative for the national team.
Here’s how it went this weekend.
Chukwueze Changes Fulham’s Rhythm With Late Impact
Samuel Chukwueze needed only a few minutes to tilt the momentum as Fulham battled for control against Sunderland in the Premier League. The winger started the game on the bench but entered the contest shortly after the hour mark, replacing Kevin in an attempt to inject more direct play into Fulham’s attack. The decision paid off as Chukwueze’s presence immediately stretched Sunderland’s defensive line and created the tempo Fulham had been missing.
His brightest moment came in the 87th minute when he cut inside from the right and delivered a well-weighted cross that Raul Jiménez turned into the net. The goal settled a tense match and gave Fulham their first win in three league games. Chukwueze has now recorded two assists in just 132 Premier League minutes, a return that strengthens his argument for a starting role.
His compatriot Alex Iwobi also featured, coming close with an overhead kick before being substituted late in the encounter. The win pushed Fulham away from the relegation zone and gave Marco Silva’s side some breathing room.
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Awaziem Ends a Turbulent Week With a Late Equaliser
Chidozie Awaziem endured a night that tested his resilience as Nantes fought to salvage a point against Lorient in Ligue 1. His evening began with frustration when he redirected a cross into his own net during first-half stoppage time, giving Lorient a lead against the run of play. The moment could have unsettled a lesser player considering the criticism he faced earlier in the week after Nigeria’s World Cup playoff defeat to DR Congo.
Instead, Awaziem responded with a level of determination that defined the second half. He remained composed defensively, won several aerial duels and continued organising the back line. In the second minute of added time, he rose above the Lorient defence to meet a well-delivered corner and powered home a header that brought the Stade de la Beaujoire to life. The equaliser ensured Nantes avoided a damaging home defeat and demonstrated Awaziem’s ability to recover from difficult moments.
Nantes remain 15th in the standings, but the defender’s performance will be viewed as a step forward at a critical point in the season.
Aina Moves Closer to Full Fitness as Recovery Progresses
Nottingham Forest provided a key update on Ola Aina’s fitness as the right-back continues his return from hamstring surgery. Forest confirmed that the defender, sidelined since September, has returned to light on-grass training and will progress to more intensive work in the coming weeks. This development offers optimism to both the club and the Super Eagles technical crew, who are monitoring his progress closely.
While Forest anticipate that he could rejoin full training between December and early 2026, his availability for the Africa Cup of Nations will depend on medical clearance and his response to the next stages of rehabilitation. Aina’s versatility and tactical intelligence make him a key component of Nigeria’s defensive structure, meaning every stage of his recovery carries national significance as preparations for AFCON continue.
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Super Falcons Stars Continue to Impress Across Europe
There was activity on the women’s side as well, with several Super Falcons players producing eye-catching performances. Jennifer Echegini scored her first goal of the season for Paris Saint-Germain in a commanding 4–1 victory over Saint-Etienne in the French Division 1 Féminine. The midfielder struck deep into stoppage time, sealing a strong outing for PSG while reaffirming her growing influence in the squad.
Rasheedat Ajibade, however, missed the match due to injury.In England, Toni Payne made her mark for Everton in the Women’s League Cup by scoring and assisting in their 3–1 win over Newcastle United. Her performance underlined her importance to the team’s attacking structure and built on her consistent contributions this season.
Elsewhere in Europe, Joy Omewa continued her outstanding run for Fortuna Hjørring in Denmark by scoring the winner, bringing her tally to thirteen league goals. Flourish Sabastine was also on target in Turkey, helping Fenerbahçe secure a dominant 5–0 victory. In Italy, Shukurat Oladipo maintained her momentum with AS Roma as she earned her fourth straight start in a 1–0 triumph in Serie A Femminile.
Across the board, Nigerian players delivered performances that reflected confidence, resilience and growth. With AFCON 2025 approaching and the Super Falcons preparing for upcoming competitive commitments, these displays provide encouragement about the depth of talent available to Nigeria.
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