Chukwueze, Boniface magic, Okoye shutout set tempo for 2026/27

Nigerian footballers across Europe delivered standout performances in pre-season matches, showcasing their talents ahead of the 2026/27 season. Akor Adams, Samuel Chukwueze, Victor Boniface, Maduka Okoye, Moses Usor and Rafiu Durosinmi all contributed significantly, offering optimism for Nigeria's national team, the Super Eagles, and their aspirations to secure a stronger position in international competitions. Akor Adams made an immediate impact for Venezia, scoring twice and providing an assist in a thrilling 3-2 Coppa Italia victory over Modena. The Nigerian striker, who joined the Italian club from Sevilla, played a pivotal role in all three of Venezia’s goals. He equalized in the first half with a composed finish after Modena took the lead via Giuseppe Ambrosino. Modena regained the advantage in the second half, but Adams orchestrated the comeback, setting up John Yeboah to level the score and then scoring the winner with a powerful strike in the final moments of the match. His performance highlighted his potential to become a key player for Venezia as they aim to establish themselves in Serie A. Meanwhile, Samuel Chukwueze dazzled in AC Milan’s 4-2 pre-season friendly win over Manchester United. The Super Eagles winger, who played the entire match, responded swiftly to United’s early lead by calmly finishing a lay-off from Goncalo Ramos. After Patrick Dorgu extended United’s advantage, Chukwueze once again proved vital, assisting Alphadjo Cisse to equalize before setting up Ramos for Milan’s third goal. His consistent contributions were a welcome sight for manager Ruben Amorim, who had previously trusted him during his loan spell at Fulham. Chukwueze’s performance offered further evidence of his growing influence within the Italian side. Victor Boniface also shone in a dramatic encounter for Bayer Leverkusen, scoring a late winner in a 2-1 pre-season friendly against Newcastle United. Leverkusen took an early lead with a sensational 25-yard strike from Ibrahim Maza, but Newcastle leveled through Malick Thiaw before Boniface sealed the win with a clinical finish in stoppage time. At 25 years old, Boniface is aiming to regain his form after challenging seasons in 2024/25 and 2025/26, including a disrupted loan spell at Werder Bremen due to a serious knee injury requiring surgery. Leverkusen coach Carles Martinez praised Boniface’s progress, emphasizing his commitment and belief in his ability to improve. The striker also thanked Leverkusen fans for their unwavering support during his tough period. Maduka Okoye maintained his solid form as Udinese claimed a 1-0 Coppa Italia victory over Padova. The Nigerian goalkeeper, who had been sidelined by a shoulder injury, returned to fitness in time for the match and kept a clean sheet. His resilience and consistency have been crucial for Udinese, especially after a lengthy recovery period. Meanwhile, Moses Usor impressed for LASK, contributing two goals and two assists in a 4-1 win over Austria Wien. His performances have drawn attention from Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle, with expectations rising for him to earn a call-up for the next international window. Rafiu Durosinmi continued his impressive start to the season with a goal for Genk, marking his second consecutive match goal. The 25-year-old is targeting the Belgian Pro League’s top-scorer title, inspired by the achievements of previous Nigerian strikers such as Paul Onuachu and Tolu Arokodare. Durosinmi’s form has positioned him as a contender for the league’s top scorers, adding to the growing list of Nigerian talents excelling in European leagues. As the new season approaches, these players' performances offer a promising outlook for Nigerian football on the continent.