3 months ago
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Eight Nigerian players will face off against one another in the English Premier League on Saturday as Fulham take on Leicester City and Southampton clash with Nottingham Forest.
With pride, points, and personal ambitions on the line, these matches could define the trajectory of each team’s early-season campaign.
Fulham vs Leicester City
The Cottagers’ clash with the Foxes pits Iwobi and Bassey against Nigeria teammate Ndidi, prospecting a mouthwatering midfield duel. All three players will be eager to make their mark after opening day’s setbacks.
Iwobi, who netted five goals in 30 appearances last term, will look to pull the strings for Fulham following their narrow 1-0 loss to Manchester United.
The versatile 28-year-old midfielder had a delightful pre-season and looks to cement his status as a key player for Marco Silva’s side.
Bassey, Fulham’s robust centre-back, made 29 appearances last season and will be crucial in nullifying Leicester’s attack. His aerial prowess and improving ball-playing abilities make him a modern defender well-suited to Premier League demands.
For Leicester, Ndidi returns to the top flight after playing a pivotal role in the Foxes’ Championship-winning campaign.
The 27-year-old made 32 appearances and scored four goals as Leicester secured instant promotion. His experience and tenacity in anchoring midfield will be vital for the visitors.
Leicester City secured a point in their 1-1 draw against Tottenham Hotspur. Steve Cooper’s side showed resilience by battling back from a goal down, courtesy of Jamie Vardy’s strike. The Foxes will be aiming to build on their momentum from last season’s away form, where they recorded more away wins than any other team in England’s top-four tiers.
Southampton vs Nottingham Forest
Meanwhile, Southampton welcome Nottingham Forest to St Mary’s Stadium in an encounter featuring the quintet of Super Eagles, with Aribo and Onuachu facing off against Aina, Awoniyi, and Dennis.
The Saints’ Aribo and Onuachu will be tasked with leading their side to their first points of the season after a disappointing 1-0 loss to Newcastle United in their opener.
Despite having a man advantage for most of the match, Southampton failed to capitalise, raising questions about their ability to compete in the Premier League.
Aribo was instrumental in Southampton’s promotion last season, showcasing creativity and goal-scoring ability in the Championship.
The technically gifted midfielder will be keen to prove himself at the highest level once more.
Onuachu returns to St. Mary’s with renewed vigour following a successful loan spell at Trabzonspor. The towering striker netted 15 goals in 21 appearances in Turkey and will aim to replicate that form under new manager Russell Martin.
Nottingham Forest, featuring Ola Aina, Taiwo Awoniyi, and Emmanuel Dennis, head into the game with confidence after holding Bournemouth to a 1-1 draw. Despite a brutal injury to Danilo early in the match, Forest showed their mettle with Chris Wood finding the net.
The Nigerian trio will be crucial in Forest’s attempt to secure back-to-back away wins, with Awoniyi’s physical presence, Aina’s versatility, and Dennis’ attacking flair all key elements in their strategy.
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