Naija Stars Abroad: Dessers, next Jay Jay Okocha, and unknown Eagle outshine Osimhen, Iwobi others

Cyriel Dessers has scored 19 goals this season more than compatriot Victor Osimhen. (Photo Credit: Rangers/X and Pulse Sports Collage)

Naija Stars Abroad: Dessers, next Jay Jay Okocha, and unknown Eagle outshine Osimhen, Iwobi others

Izuchukwu Akawor 07:02 - 22.04.2024

Naija Stars Abroad rounds up the performances of Nigerians and Super Eagles across the world, with Cyriel Dessers, Ejuke and a little-known Flying Eagles star taking the shine from Victor Osimhen, Alex Iwobi and others.

While the likes of Victor Osimhen, Alex Iwobi, and Calvin Bassey endured mixed fortunes across Europe's elite leagues, it was Cyriel Dessers, Chidera Ejuke, and an unknown Flying Eagles gem who stole the spotlight with their decisive contributions over the weekend.

Naija Stars Abroad runs the rule on the performances of these Nigerians at the weekend across the world of football.

Dessers Fires Rangers to Historic Scottish Cup Final

The often-criticised Cyriel Dessers wrote his name into Rangers folklore, bagging a brace to propel the Gers into the Scottish Cup final.

Dessers, who scored for the Super Eagles in the last international break, is not the most popular player at the Scottish giants, but the 29-year-old appears to be in the form of his life.

Cyriel Dessers has scored 19 goals for Rangers this season.
Cyriel Dessers has scored 19 goals for Rangers this season.

His double sets up a famous clash against Celtic in what is the first Old Firm final in 22 years. Dessers' double took his tally to 19 goals across all competitions this season.

Ejuke's Magic Ends Antwerp's Winless Run

Dubbed the 'next Jay-Jay Okocha', Ejuke lived up to his billing with a sensational solo strike in the 66th minute, firing reigning Belgian champions Royal Antwerp to a crucial 1-0 victory over Cercle Brugge.

Chidera Ejuke was the main man for Antwerp again.
Chidera Ejuke was the main man for Antwerp again.

Ejuke’s sensational strike was his fourth for the club this season and helped to end Antwerp's five-match winless run to reignite what looks like a fading hope in the Jupiler Pro League title race.

Unknown Gem Umeh Shines for Botev Plovdiv

Away from the spotlight, little-known Flying Eagles forward Umeh Emmanuel announced himself on the big stage, netting a brace as Botev Plovdiv cruised to an away victory in the Bulgarian Parva Liga.

Umeh Emmanuel during the FIFA U20 World Cup for Nigeria.
Umeh Emmanuel during the FIFA U20 World Cup for Nigeria. (Photo Credit: Imago)

Lookman Deliver Masterclass for Atalanta

Fresh from his exploits at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Ademola Lookman picked up where he left off, producing a masterclass for Atalanta in their 2-1 win over Monza.

The 26-year-old created five chances, three of which were dubbed 'big chances', while also registering two brilliant assists – taking his tally to six assists and eight goals this season.

Ademola Lookman celebrating with the scorer after creating the assist
Ademola Lookman celebrating with the scorer after creating the assist || Imago

Other Nigerians on Target

Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City)

Joe Aribo (Southampton)

Leicester star Ndidi || Imago

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Hataspor)

Rasheedat Ajibade (Atletico Madrid)

Super Falcons of Nigeria star Uchenna Kanu now has 4 goals in the NWSL as Racing Louisville thrash Ifeoma Onumonu's Utah Royal
Super Falcons of Nigeria star Uchenna Kanu now has 4 goals in the NWSL as Racing Louisville thrash Ifeoma Onumonu's Utah Royals.

Toni Payne (Sevilla - assist)

Kanu Uchenna (NWSL)

Napoli striker Victor Osimhen (Imago/NurPhoto)

Meanwhile, the likes of Victor Osimhen (Napoli), Alex Iwobi (Everton), and Calvin Bassey (Ajax) failed to impact proceedings as their respective sides suffered defeats.

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