Akor Adams led a stunning Super Eagles showcase across Europe on Sunday, producing a Man-of-the-Match display as Nigerian stars lit up leagues on the continent with goals, assists and commanding performances.
Adams was the standout performer as Sevilla dismantled Real Oviedo 4–0, scoring once and providing two assists in a dazzling attacking display. The Nigerian forward tormented defenders throughout the contest, earning comparisons with Thierry Henry for his movement and composure. Chidera Ejuke added further sparkle after coming off the bench, weaving through defenders before netting Sevilla’s fourth goal.
In Italy, Gift Orban delivered late drama for Hellas Verona, scoring both goals in a hard-fought 2–1 away victory over Fiorentina. The striker’s decisive moment came deep into stoppage time, with a 93rd-minute winner that capped a tireless and dominant outing.
Turkey also witnessed Nigerian excellence as Anthony Dennis dictated proceedings in midfield, helping Goztepe secure a 1–0 away win over Gaziantep in the Turkish Super League. His control and ball-winning ensured a clean sheet and frustrated the hosts throughout.
There was late heartbreak for Wilfred Ndidi in Turkey’s clash of heavyweights, as the Super Eagles captain saw his ten-man Besiktas side surrender a 3–1 lead to draw 3–3 away at Trabzonspor. Paul Onuachu missed the encounter through suspension.
In the Czech Republic, Rafiu Durosinmi responded impressively to his omission from Nigeria’s AFCON squad, scoring the opening goal in Viktoria Plzen’s 2–0 win over Dukla Praha. Raphael Onyedika was equally influential in Belgium, orchestrating midfield dominance as Club Brugge cruised to a resounding 5–1 away victory against FCV Dender.
Goalkeeping heroics came in Italy, where Maduka Okoye produced a flawless performance between the posts to help Udinese stun champions Napoli 1–0, denying the hosts with a series of outstanding saves.
Elsewhere, Cyriel Dessers enjoyed a perfect send-off ahead of AFCON, scoring early and winning a penalty as Panathinaikos edged NFC Volos 2–1. Salim Fago Lawal underlined his AFCON selection with a poacher’s finish for NK Istra against HNK Rijeka, although the match was later abandoned at 1–1.
Bruno Onyemaechi featured prominently for Olympiacos in their goalless draw at Aris, while Christantus Uche came close to consolation for Crystal Palace, striking the post twice after coming on as a substitute in a 3–0 defeat to Manchester City.
From Spain to Italy and beyond, Sunday belonged to Nigeria’s footballers — with Akor Adams firmly at the heart of a weekend to remember.
