Naija Stars Abroad Show Momentum And Vulnerability Ahead Of AFCON 2025

As the Super Eagles edge closer to AFCON 2025 in Morocco, Nigerian players abroad delivered a weekend that perfectly captured the dual reality facing Eric Chelle’s side: blistering attacking momentum on one hand, and worrying signs of vulnerability on the other.

Goals flowed freely from Nigeria’s attacking ranks across Europe, reinforcing belief that the Super Eagles possess one of the tournament’s most dangerous forward lines. Yet, a high-profile disciplinary lapse also surfaced, underlining a recurring issue that could prove costly on the continental stage.

This push and pull between confidence and control is the real story emerging from the latest round of Naija Stars Abroad.

How Nigeria’s Momentum Built

Across multiple leagues, Super Eagles regulars and fringe players alike stepped up with performances that strengthened their AFCON credentials.

Akor Adams And Chidera Ejuke (Sevilla)

Sevilla’s emphatic 4–0 demolition of Real Oviedo saw both Akor Adams and Chidera Ejuke find the net. Adams ended a goal drought in style, opening the scoring and adding two assists in a dominant all-round display.

Ejuke capped the rout with a late strike, sealing a performance that showcased confidence, chemistry and attacking fluidity. Both players now head into AFCON camp riding a wave of belief.

Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi And Samuel Chukwueze

Fulham’s Nigerian contingent also delivered. Calvin Bassey scored his first goal of the season with a composed header, while Samuel Chukwueze registered another assist. Alex Iwobi’s influence in midfield rounded off a solid outing as Fulham continued their steady Premier League run.

Victor Osimhen

Nigeria’s talisman once again underlined his importance. Victor Osimhen was on the scoresheet for Galatasaray, further boosting an already prolific campaign and reinforcing his role as the Super Eagles’ primary attacking reference point heading into AFCON 2025.

Elsewhere in Türkiye, Paul Onuachu missed Trabzonspor’s thrilling 3–3 draw with Besiktas, where Wilfred Ndidi completed the full 90 minutes in midfield.

Others Making Noise

Cyriel Dessers, new invitee Salim Fago and several other Nigerians delivered goals and decisive contributions across Europe, highlighting the depth of options available to Chelle.

Even players outside the AFCON squad were not left out of the narrative. Tolu Arokodare netted his first Premier League goal against Arsenal, while Rafiu Durosinmi and Gift Orban both found the net in Serie A action for Hellas Verona, underlining Nigeria’s growing attacking pool.

The Contradiction: Discipline Raises Red Flags

For all the positivity in attack, the weekend also exposed a familiar concern. Newly invited midfielder Usman Mohammed endured a nightmare outing in Israel, receiving two quick yellow cards and being sent off just days before joining the Super Eagles camp.

His dismissal added fuel to the debate surrounding his selection, especially given his limited influence at club level this season. In tournament football, where margins are razor-thin, such lapses in discipline could prove decisive.

What This Means For AFCON 2025

Nigeria’s attacking depth looks formidable, with multiple players peaking at the right moment. Goals, creativity and confidence are clearly not in short supply.

However, AFCON is unforgiving. Defensive organisation, emotional control and discipline often separate champions from nearly men. The weekend’s events highlighted the delicate balance Nigeria must strike if they are to translate momentum into silverware.

As the Super Eagles settle into camp in Cairo ahead of Tuesday’s friendly against Mohamed Salah’s Egypt, the real challenge for Eric Chelle will be aligning Nigeria’s attacking firepower with composure and focus.

In Morocco, brilliance will win games — but discipline will decide how far the Super Eagles truly go.

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