Naija Stars Abroad: Super Eagles firepower on full display — But Lookman's absence raises questions

Nigerian and Super Eagles stars continued to make waves across Europe's elite leagues over the weekend, blending milestones, match-winning goals, and defensive masterclasses amid a mix of triumphs and tough draws.

From Alex Iwobi's historic century of appearances at Fulham to Victor Osimhen’s playmaking clinic, Umar Sadiq's timely strike for Valencia, Super Eagles stars delivered moments that had fans buzzing on social media and in stadiums.

While some like Ademola Lookman faced bench duty post-midweek heroics, the overall showing reaffirmed Nigeria's growing influence after AFCON 2025.

Alex Iwobi wrote his name further into Fulham folklore by clocking his 100th appearance for the Cottagers during a pulsating 2-1 FA Cup fourth-round victory over Stoke City on Sunday.

The versatile midfielder, a senior figure in Marco Silva's squad, played the full 90 minutes, providing stability in a game that saw Fulham claw back from a deficit.

Iwobi's composure helped orchestrate the comeback, with two second half goals ensuring progression.

Notably absent were teammate Calvin Bassey, who remained on the bench amid rotation, and Samuel Chukwueze, who sat out entirely, likely nursing fitness or tactical rest ahead of league duties.

Iwobi's landmark game shows his adaptation since joining from Everton, amassing key assists and now this personal accolade.

In La Liga, Umar Sadiq proved his worth off the bench for Valencia, scoring the second goal in a crucial 2-0 derby win against Levante.

The towering forward's 84th-minute finish, his first league goal since returning in January, sealed the points and boosted Valencia's survival bid. Sadiq's predatory instinct turned a gritty contest into a statement, delighting home supporters.

Akor Adams was caged again for Sevilla in their 1-1 draw at home to Alaves, with Chidera Ejuke playing from the bench as well.

Meanwhile, Paul Onuachu remains unstoppable in Turkey's Super Lig, netting his 16th goal of the season for Trabzonspor in a hard-fought defeat.

The former Genk marksman extended lead over Victor Osimhen in the scoring charts, showing lethal finishing with his head that has Trabzonspor dreaming big.

Osimhen, on the other hand, was in creative form, focusing on build-up play in a competitive outing that saw him provide two assists to inspire Galatasaray to a comprehensive 5-1 win.

Porto's Zaidu Sanusi was the defensive standout, anchoring a 1-0 Primeira Liga road win at Nacional. Coach Francesco Farioli lauded the Super Eagles left-back for his "great performance," decisive in securing a clean sheet against a resilient opponent. Sanusi's overlapping runs and tackles highlighted his evolution into a key asset.

Ademola Lookman, fresh off heroics against Barcelona midweek, was surprisingly benched for Atalanta's Serie A clash with Rayo Vallecano, entering late in a disappointing loss. The decision sparked debate, but Lookman's freshness could pay dividends soon.

This weekend's action, spanning FA Cup drama, La Liga relief, Turkish dominance, and Portuguese grit, nets Nigeria multiple goal contributions and clean sheets.