Nigerian footballers will be in the spotlight today as they feature in high-stakes matches across Europe’s top leagues and the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), with outcomes that could shape title races, relegation battles, and European qualification.
NPFL: Rivers United vs Remo Stars
In the domestic scene, second-placed Rivers United host league leaders Remo Stars in a potential title decider in Port Harcourt. With just seven matches remaining after this weekend, Remo Stars are eight points clear with a game in hand. Rivers United captain Temple Emekayi has rallied his teammates, urging them to bounce back from recent defeats to Bayelsa United and Beyond Limits FA. A win would reduce Remo’s lead to five points, but a loss could all but crown the Ikenne-based side as champions.
Premier League: Fulham vs Liverpool (Iwobi, Bassey)
Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey will be key for Fulham as they face title-chasing Liverpool at Craven Cottage. Iwobi has been one of Fulham’s top performers this season with seven goals and three assists. His creativity will be crucial as Fulham aim to disrupt Liverpool’s title charge and potentially do a favour to Iwobi’s former club, Arsenal. Bassey is also expected to feature prominently in defence.
Premier League: Tottenham vs Southampton (Aribo, Onuachu)
Joe Aribo and Paul Onuachu could feature as Southampton face Tottenham. Aribo is tipped to start as the Saints try to avoid relegation, while Onuachu may come off the bench. A loss for Southampton, combined with a Wolves win over Ipswich, would confirm their drop from the top flight.
La Liga: Sevilla vs Atletico Madrid (Ejuke, Adams)
Chidera Ejuke and Akor Adams will look to make an impact as Sevilla host Atletico Madrid. Adams is returning from injury and still chasing his first goal, while Ejuke has contributed two goals and an assist in 19 appearances. Atletico are hoping to end a winless streak and stay in the Champions League spots.
Serie A: Atalanta vs Lazio (Lookman vs Dele-Bashiru)
Ademola Lookman and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru will clash in Italy as Atalanta face Lazio. Both players were involved in their last meeting, which ended 1-1, with Dele-Bashiru scoring and Lookman assisting. Both sides are chasing Champions League qualification but are struggling for consistency.
Portugal: Porto vs Benfica (Zaidu Sanusi)
Zaidu Sanusi could return for Porto in the Portuguese derby against Benfica. The defender is gradually recovering from a long-term injury and may feature in this crucial match. Benfica are chasing the title, while Porto look to close the gap and secure a Champions League spot.
Turkey: Fenerbahce vs Trabzonspor (Bright Osayi-Samuel)
Bright Osayi-Samuel is expected to feature for Fenerbahce in their fierce clash against Trabzonspor. With his contract set to expire, the Nigerian has attracted interest from Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest. The match is crucial for Fenerbahce’s title ambitions, as they aim to close the gap on Galatasaray.
From Port Harcourt to Portugal, Nigerian stars are set to play pivotal roles as club campaigns reach decisive stages. All eyes will be on their performances today.
