Nigerians have a long-standing affection for the English Premier League, with the relationship between the country and England’s top flight dating back to the early 1990s.
Kanu Nwankwo’s transfer to Arsenal in 1997 truly cemented the bond, and since then, the connection has only grown stronger.
Fast-forward to the 2024-25 season, and Nigerians continue to make their mark.
As we approach matchday 12, let’s take a closer look at their impressive performances so far and what we can expect this weekend.
Alex Iwobi & Calvin Bassey (Fulham vs Wolves)
Alex Iwobi has been outstanding for Fulham this season, playing with creative freedom and finally reaching the heights many believed he was capable of. The Nigerian international has contributed two goals and two assists in 11 appearances, including a crucial game-winning strike against Leicester City and a well-taken finish to rescue a point against Everton.
Fulham manager Marco Silva recently praised Iwobi’s performances, calling him “one of the best players this season” and he will be hoping for even more eye-catching performances from his dynamic midfielder.
Iwobi isn’t the only Nigerian performing at a high level for Fulham. Calvin Bassey has been a rock in defense, alongside Joachim Andersen, and their defensive solidity has helped the Cottagers concede just 13 goals this season. Notably, Bassey has remarkably started and finished every single league game for Silva’s men this season, a testament to his consistency.
Fulham are 7th in the Premier League standings with 18 points from 11 games, and will be confident as they welcome Wolves to Craven Cottage on Saturday.
Iwobi to score anytime @4.25 – Bet Here
Ola Aina & Taiwo Awoniyi (Nottingham Forest vs Arsenal)
Ola Aina is not just the best full-back at Nottingham Forest; there’s a strong case to be made for him being one of the best full-backs in the league. He’s certainly up there with the likes of Josko Gvardiol and Reece James – players who pose a potent threat in attack and are extremely reliable at the back.
The Nigerian is virtually undroppable and has been instrumental in Forest’s impressive start to the season. The Tricky Tees are currently fifth in the standings, and boast a better defensive record than Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City, having conceded just 10 goals in 11 games.
Aina scored his first goal of the season in the 3-0 win over West Ham two weeks ago. However, this weekend’s task against Arsenal will be all about keeping the likes of Gabriel Martinelli quiet and helping preserve Forest’s excellent start.
Taiwo Awoniyi is another Nigerian at Forest, but he has struggled over the past 12 months due to injuries. He is now firmly behind Chris Wood in the pecking order, and is unlikely to start against Arsenal this weekend.
Manager Nuno Espirito Santo may turn to him only if Forest are desperately chasing a goal late in the game.
Awoniyi to score anytime @5.50 – Bet Here
Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City vs Chelsea)
Wilfred Ndidi has been instrumental in Leicester City’s fight to avoid relegation this season. The Nigerian midfielder has been a major driving force at the heart of the pitch, contributing four assists in 11 appearances.
The Foxes are currently three points clear of the drop zone, a win against Chelsea this weekend could propel the Foxes into mid-table. Manager Steve Cooper has found an effective way to utilize Ndidi as a box-to-box midfielder, granting him the freedom to operate higher up the pitch, which has significantly boosted his productivity.
Leicester are certainly not favourites to beat Chelsea this weekend, given their current form and the gulf in quality between both sides. However, for them to stand a chance, Ndidi must be at the top of his game. He will need to stifle the likes of Moises Caicedo, and especially Cole Palmer, which is no easy task.
Ndidi to assist anytime @7.10 – Bet Here
Booking Code: 8CZ8RW – Book Here
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