Super Eagles heroes return for clash against Arsenal

Fulham have welcomed back their Nigerian stars Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, and Samuel Chukwueze ahead of their crucial Premier League showdown with Arsenal this weekend.

The trio returned to training in high spirits after playing key roles in Nigeria’s emphatic 4–0 win over Benin Republic, which sealed the Super Eagles’ place in the CAF World Cup playoffs.

In Nigeria’s decisive win in Uyo, Victor Osimhen stole the headlines with a hat-trick, while Fulham winger Samuel Chukwueze delivered a standout performance, providing two assists.

Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey also impressed as Eric Chelle’s side produced a dominant display to keep their World Cup hopes alive.

Following the victory, Fulham celebrated their players’ contributions on social media, writing: “Our three Naija boys started in a crucial World Cup qualifying victory, with Samu getting two assists.”

Despite the big win, Nigeria finished second in Group C, narrowly missing out on an automatic World Cup spot to South Africa. They now move into a tense playoff stage alongside teams like Cameroon, Gabon, and Burkina Faso.

Ahead of Arsenal’s trip to Craven Cottage, Mikel Arteta heaped praise on former Gunner Alex Iwobi, acknowledging his evolution into one of Fulham’s most influential players.

“I always liked him a lot,” Arteta told London World. “He has tremendous quality, a very special talent that allows him to play in different spaces and positions. I’m really happy to see him performing at that level.”

Arsenal have struggled in this fixture in recent seasons, winning just one of their last four meetings with Fulham. With Marco Silva’s men buoyed by their returning Super Eagles, Arteta expects another tough contest in West London.

“It’s going to be a big challenge,” he said. “We experienced that last year when we lost five points against them. Fulham are a very strong side and always difficult to beat at home.”

With Fulham’s Nigerian contingent back in form and full of confidence, Sunday’s clash promises to be a thrilling encounter between two teams with plenty to prove.