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Victor Osimhen On Fire As Forgotten Super Eagle Returns — But Lookman And Boniface Still Goalless
Victor Osimhen On Fire As Forgotten Super Eagle Returns — But Lookman And Boniface Still Goalless
It was another mixed weekend for Nigerian stars abroad as Victor Osimhen kept flying the flag high, while a long-forgotten name returned to the headlines — but others, including Ademola Lookman and Victor Boniface, continue to struggle in front of goal.
Osimhen Unstoppable For Galatasaray
After his Champions League heroics, Osimhen proved once again that he’s back to his best. The 26-year-old striker bagged the all-important equaliser in Galatasaray’s 3-1 comeback win over Goztepe, marking his third goal in two matches and his sixth of the season in all competitions.
While Paul Onuachu couldn’t add to his tally of seven goals for Trabzonspor, Osimhen’s consistency is a major boost for both club and country as Nigeria prepares for upcoming international fixtures.
Gift Orban Reminds Everyone He’s Still Around
It’s been a while since fans heard from Gift Orban, but the forgotten forward made a strong statement in Italy. The Hellas Verona striker scored his second goal of the season, giving his team a 2-1 lead against Cagliari before the visitors snatched a late equaliser.
The 22-year-old’s resurgence could be timely as competition for Super Eagles attacking spots heats up ahead of international duty.
Lookman And Boniface Still Searching For Goals
While Osimhen and Orban were on target, things didn’t go as planned for Ademola Lookman and Victor Boniface.
Lookman played the full 90 minutes in Atalanta’s 1-1 draw at Cremonese, but once again failed to find the net — extending his dry spell to six league appearances this season.
Meanwhile, Boniface’s struggles continued in Germany as Werder Bremen failed to get him firing. Both players will be hoping to rediscover their scoring touch soon, especially with the AFCON qualifiers on the horizon.
Mixed Fortunes For Other Super Eagles Abroad
In France, Moses Simon had a frustrating night as Paris FC lost to his former club Nantes, while compatriot Chidozie Awaziem shone for the visitors — completing 90% of his passes, winning 7 aerial duels, and making 17 clearances in a rock-solid display.
Over in England, it was heartbreak for Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey as Fulham fell 2-1 to Newcastle United, with Bassey’s error leading to a crucial goal. Chrisantus Uche came on late for Crystal Palace in their loss to Arsenal, and Tolu Arokodare had just six minutes in Genk’s 3-2 defeat.
Nigeria’s Stars Keep The Fire Burning
From Osimhen’s brilliance to Orban’s revival, Nigerian footballers continue to make waves across Europe. While some face tough spells, the resilience and talent of the Super Eagles abroad remain a source of pride for fans back home.
Stay tuned to Sports Market International — the best sports blog for updates, stats, and stories from the world of football and beyond.
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**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.
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